Staying physically active at home is one of the best ways for adults—especially older adults—to maintain strength, balance, and independence. Whether your goal is long life, improved mobility, or better overall health, even small daily movements make a big difference.
Chair exercises are especially valuable. They let people with physical limitations, chronic conditions, or balance concerns keep moving safely. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of exercise from home, simple chair exercises for elderly and adults of all ages, and how the Summit Health Solutions Telehealth Exercise Program can help you stay active with professional guidance.
Why Being Physically Active at Home Matters
Regular physical activity supports heart health, maintains muscle mass, reduces fall risk, and boosts mental well-being. The NSW Active & Healthy program shows how everyday home-based activities—like stretching, household chores, or simple balance moves—help older adults remain mobile and independent.
The UK NHS physical activity guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, plus strength and balance exercises on two or more days. Importantly, these benefits are achievable at home, without a gym.
Many older adults know that daily movement matters, but fear of falling, pain, or loss of motivation often stops them from starting. These are the very issues explored in our related guide “The Top 3 Reasons Seniors Skip Exercise – and How Telehealth Solves Them.” Read the full guide for practical, at-home solutions to these common barriers.
Benefits of Chair Exercises for Long Life and Health
Chair-based workouts are more than just convenient. They provide:
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Joint-friendly movement that reduces strain on knees and hips.
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Improved flexibility and circulation, preventing stiffness and injuries.
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Strength and balance training to lower fall risk and support independence.
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A gentle way to promote stress relief and boost daily energy.
For seniors, adults with chronic pain, or anyone new to exercise, chair routines are a safe and effective way to stay physically active and support a longer, healthier life.
Simple Chair Exercises to Do at Home
These beginner-friendly moves require only a sturdy chair. They’re part of the guided routines offered in Summit Health Solutions’ Telehealth Exercise Program—designed to help older adults build strength, mobility, and confidence from the comfort of home.
1. Seated Marches
Lift knees alternately while sitting tall to improve blood flow and engage core muscles.
2. Seated Leg Extensions
Straighten one leg at a time, hold briefly, and lower slowly to build quadriceps strength essential for walking and stair climbing.
3. Torso Twists
Gently rotate your upper body side to side to improve spinal mobility and core strength.
Safety Tip: Use a non-slip chair on an even surface and you may keep a bottle of water nearby.
Add Variety with Other At-Home Activities
Enhance chair exercises with other gentle movements for overall adult activity:
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Light housework or gardening
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Stretching or gentle yoga
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Short indoor walks
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Combining daily tasks with structured chair exercises can help meet weekly activity goals for better longevity and health.
Summit Health Solutions Telehealth Exercise Program
At Summit Health Solutions, we understand that starting or maintaining an exercise routine can be challenging. Our Telehealth Exercise Program brings expert support directly to your home.
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Safety first: We focus on participant safety and guide you in real time to prevent injury. Our telehealth physios see your every movement, correct form in real time, and gradually progress exercises.
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Chair-friendly options: If certain movements are too challenging, we offer seated adaptations to keep you active and confident. Programs are designed to reduce pain and improve strength, not push through discomfort.
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Convenient access: No need to travel—get professional coaching and feedback via video call with a friendly community. Friendly group sessions and regular check-ins turn solo exercise into a social, enjoyable routine.
Telehealth makes it easy to stay active, even if mobility issues, weather, or busy schedules make in-person visits difficult.
FAQs
Why are chair exercises important for adults and seniors?
They enable safe, low-impact movement that builds strength and balance, helping maintain independence.
Can I mix chair exercises with other workouts?
Yes. Combine them with light walking, stretching, or gentle strength training for overall fitness.
Are chair exercises safe for arthritis or chronic conditions?
Generally yes, but always check with a healthcare professional before starting a new routine.
How does telehealth help me stay active?
Our telehealth sessions provide real-time guidance and safe progressions tailored to your abilities and goals.
Putting It All Together for a Longer, Healthier Life
The importance of being physically active at home cannot be overstated. Chair exercises empower adults of all ages—including those with limited mobility—to maintain strength, improve balance, and reduce stress.
Ready to start? Summit Health Solutions’ Telehealth Exercise Program offers expert, personalised guidance to help you exercise safely at home—whether standing or seated.
Take your first step toward greater strength, independence, and a longer, healthier life—book a telehealth session with Summit Health Solutions today. Enroll today using this link!
