Get Fit While You Sit with Chair Exercises!

January is the month for new beginnings and new goals, with fitness and exercise often topping many people’s list.

Bill Porter, Premium Member of FPN and member of the DC Area Support Group, praised the chair yoga classes he takes as part of a healthy and active fitness regime in a recent article by Brain and Life magazine (Dec 2020/Jan 2021).

What are Chair Exercises?

Chair exercises are exercises done in a seated position.  The exercises can be done in a desk chair, wheel chair, or any chair at home or office.  The exercises can include other exercise equipment such as weights or be structured or non-structured movements.  Chair exercises provide a safe way to exercise for everyone, including people who may have balance issues or trouble standing.  Chair exercises also take pressure off of the lower body making it a good alternative to people in pain.

Chair Exercise Tips

Do you want to give chair exercising a try in the new year?  Here are some tips on chair exercising as presented by Brain and Life Magazine:

• Make sure the chair you use is sturdy and slip proof.  No wheels please!
• The chair should be at a height that allows your hips to be at or just above your knees. 
• Sit toward the front of the chair, with both feet firmly planted on the floor.
• Many forms of exercise can be adapted to chair exercise, including yoga, dancing, boxing, and other forms of exercise.
• Everyone can benefit from stretches and other movements done during the day to take a break from office and desk work.
• Several organizations offer sitting exercises online that you do including:
  • Above MS seated workouts
  • Silver Sneakers
  • Sit and Be Fit 

So grab a chair and start moving for a healthy 2021!

To read the full article, click here.

To learn more about healthy living with peripheral neuropathy, click here. 

Please check with your healthcare provider before you begin any new exercise regime.