Thinking of trying out a seated chair exercise class from the comfort of your home? Or maybe you’re already taking part in our online classes or, even, our on-site classes. We’ve put together some tips and advice to ensure you’re correctly kitted out.
Chances are you have everything you need in your home already. If you haven’t done so, then why not give one of our classes a try…….. remember, your first class with MOVEability is FREE. For those of you who are already valued clients, remember if you refer a friend, we will add a free class to your account.
First things first, your chair.
You need a good sturdy chair that you can sit in with your knees bent at right angles and your feet flat on the floor. Ideally, it should not have arms as they could restrict your movement.
Unless you are using your wheelchair, the chair should not have wheels or be able to swivel or move in any way.
If you’re using a wheelchair, remember the brakes!
Want reassurance that you have the right chair? Feel free to get in touch.
What should I wear?
Lightweight and comfortable. For your top half, something that you can easily move your arms and shoulders in and ideally elasticated for your bottom half. We recommend an additional layer (such as a cardigan or zip-up sweatshirt) so that you have something to remove as you warm up.
See what others are wearing. Not got these at home? Get in touch, and we can talk you through alternatives.
Do I need trainers?
Any comfortable flat shoes will work. Or you can take your shoes off and work out in your socks.
What refreshments are best?
During MOVEability classes, you will be encouraged to ‘grab a drink’ at regular intervals. Make sure you have water or a cold drink of your choice (just not fizzy or sugary) in easy reach. Whether in a cup, tumbler, or bottle is up to you.
Will I need any additional equipment?
In some of our specialist ‘strengthening and conditioning’ classes, we have routines that encourage using hand weights. Don’t worry – you won’t need to rush out and purchase special weights. Everything you need is in your food cupboard……..you can use tins of tuna or sweetcorn (140-190g) as light weights and tins of beans or soup (400-415g) as heavier weights.
What’s best, a laptop, PC, phone, tablet or smart TV?
It doesn’t really matter. Whatever works best for you. If using a phone or tablet, make sure you can securely prop it up like in the examples below and that it is close enough to see the instructor.
Here’s how our client Paige exercised from home.
If you need assistance setting up on Zoom, we have the technical expertise to help, so please do not hesitate to contact us.
Keeping safe
Throughout the class, your MOVEability instructor will remind you to work within your limits and share tips to keep you safe. However, it is recommended that whilst exercising in the comfort of your own home, another person is always present who is aware that you are exercising; they could even be taking part in the class with you. If you are alone, having a phone close to hand with immediate access to the phone number of someone you know will answer is necessary. The instructor will check this is the case at the beginning of each class.
Your turn
We’d love to hear how you’ve enhanced your exercising at home experience. Share your tips with us at at info@moveability.org.uk and we’ll happily include them in future blogs.