We are ChairFit family
Ten Count Boxing Gym in Bentilee have been hosting twice weekly ChairFit exercise classes for more than two years.
Initially supported by a £500 donation and referrals from the NHS Respiratory Team, ChairFit is the only free exercise class in Bentilee and it has become a healthy option for its attendees.
With support from the Health Inequalities grant funding, trainer Paula DeMichele hopes to continue to grow the ChairFit community she refers to as “family”.
Paula said: “This initiative arose from a community need for accessible exercise and warm social spaces. ChairFit’s impact is significant as members report feeling more energetic and stronger. The class keeps people active and socially connected which reduces the burden on local healthcare services by preventing falls and GP visits.”
John, who has COPD, has been attending the classes for about 18 months. He said: “I find these classes very beneficial. Paula is a good instructor, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie. The classes help me stay active, and I feel better because of them.”
He added: “There’s also a discipline in it but there’s no competition, we’re not letting anyone down and we’re part of the team.”
A recent ChairFit Chat invited regulars to reflect on what they get from attending the class. And because Phyllis was away on holiday in Anglesey, they gave her a video call to make sure she didn’t miss out.
Regular attendee Kieron says attending the classes has made the world of difference to him and he’d recommend it to anyone.
He said: “It’s got me from being a couch potato doing nothing to exercising an hour and a half twice a week and it’s made a massive difference – to my life, my home and my wife. I’m feeling fitter and although I’m not doing any marathons any time soon, it’s boosted my confidence by 100 per cent and improved my mental health because I don’t feel so useless.”
Regular excerciser Carole is full of giggles and says she never misses a class unless her illness means she is in hospital or unable to leave the house. And she’s inundated with offers of a lift to the classes if she is struggling.
Paula added: “Funding is crucial to keep the class free, accommodate more people and cover the costs and we’re grateful for this support.”
ChairFit takes place at Ten Count gym in Winchester Avenue, Bentilee from 10am – 11.30am every Tuesday and Friday. For more information email contact@chairfit.uk