What is Chair Aerobics?

Chair aerobics are a form of aerobic exercise where the participant stays seated in a chair for the duration of the exercise session. Normally targeted at those with mobility problems, chair aerobics aim to give a complete workout while limiting the stress and strain on joints.

The exercises are often supplemented with the usage of resistance bands and dumbbells. The basic exercises include a variety of punches and kicks that raise the heart rate of the participant to increase their cardiovascular fitness. Chair aerobics can be done in a classroom setting led by an instructor or at home with an exercise video.

Most chair aerobics sessions involve a brief warmup period followed by coordinated punches and kicks to raise the heart rate. From there, sessions can continue with primarily aerobic based exercises, but might also move into weightlifting to build strength.

Chair aerobics aren’t designed to get people into marathon running shape, but rather to help them with their day to day activities or to raise their fitness level enough so that more strenuous exercises become possible.

The only equipment required for chair aerobics is a chair with good support (most armless folding chairs are fine). Filled soup or soda cans can serve as weights and there are a variety of books and tapes available to teach the basic exercise series.