Chair Yoga Training Helps Build Skills, Confidence and Connections Across Herts

A group of health professionals, older adults and Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire Champions recently took part in a chair yoga and mindfulness training course funded by Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership (HSP) and delivered by Accessible Chair Yoga CIC. The course explored how yoga can be adapted to suit people of all abilities, including seated versions of traditional mat based yoga poses.

The training supported the aims of Age Friendly: Live Better, which promotes opportunities for older residents to stay active, connected and independent. Recruitment took place through the Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire network, attracting Health and Wellbeing Coaches, Social Prescribers, Live Longer Better champions and older adults interested in introducing chair-based yoga to local groups.

All 10 places were filled, with participants aged between 30 and 85, reflecting strong interest in accessible physical activity. Attendees quickly began applying their learning in both personal and professional settings. One participant in his 80s shared the techniques with his wife, who has limited mobility and is unable to leave home. The couple now regularly attend Accessible Chair Yoga CIC's online classes together.

Professionals also reported immediate benefits. A Health and Wellbeing Coach from Broxbourne Alliance PCN said they had already incorporated elements of the training into strength, balance and movement sessions in the community and have recieved positive feedback from participants.

A key message throughout the day was that yoga is for everyone and can be adapted for different levels of mobility. Feedback showed that participants planned to use their new skills to support patients, clients, students and community groups, while also improving their own wellbeing.

One particularly inspiring example came from a participant named John, who had never practised yoga before. Using a chair for support, he took part in all activities and felt confident enough to able to get down to the floor and back up independently during the relaxation session. Afterwards, he revealed this was the first time in a long while he had managed to do so since previously using a wheelchair. His experience highlighted the confidence-building and empowering impact of accessible yoga.

Liz, Co-Founder of Accessible Chair Yoga CIC, praised the diversity of the group and their shared commitment to helping older people stay active and connected. The success of the pilot has highlighted opportunities to expand the programme, including developing progression pathways for volunteers, community leaders and professionals to deliver chair-based yoga sessions in care homes and community settings across Hertfordshire.

To find local yoga classes vist the Moving More Activity Finder 

Further information about chair yoga is available at Accessible Chair Yoga. 

To find out more about Age Friendly: Live Better, visit Age Friendly Hertfordshire and Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire