A local community group in Newport hopes to encourage residents to get out and shake it all about with their seated exercise to music classes.

The sociable sessions, which are held at St. John’s Church Hall, offer a relaxed and friendly approach to exercise that includes a range of mood-boosting music and colourful props such as pom poms and shakers so that seniors can have fun before enjoying a cup of tea and well-deserved chocolate biscuit afterward. 

The musical fitness routines are gentle, seated and are suitable for older adults as well as complete beginners and hope to see people not only improve their fitness levels but make new friends and gain confidence. 

ActivCare-qualified seated exercise instructor and club founder Katie Pritchett said, “For some, this may be the only time they get to connect with their local community. Some of the participants wouldn’t go out otherwise because some may have low self-esteem and various disabilities.

“They can improve their mental wellbeing as well as their physical health.” 

Tickets are purchased on the door and are £5, including tea and biscuits, and are held every Monday from 2-3 pm at the church hall on St John’s Road, Newport.  

The classes have so far proved popular and already mobile and are taking bookings at local community centers and residential care homes across the Island soon.