Instructors' Perceptions of Mostly Seated Exercise Classes: Exploring the Concept of Chair Based Exercise

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Exercise Science
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Chair-based exercise (CBE) is crucial for engaging older adults with mobility limitations.
• Defining the scope and context of CBE remains a challenge in exercise science.
• Understanding instructor perspectives is key to clarifying CBE's role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore exercise instructor experiences in delivering chair-based exercise (CBE) to older adults.
• To understand how instructor perceptions contribute to defining the concept of CBE.
• To identify the perceived benefits and limitations of CBE delivery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative data analysis using framework analysis.
• Data extracted from a cross-sectional survey of 731 exercise instructors.
• Analysis informed by a Delphi consensus study on CBE.

Main Results:

• Instructors perceive mostly seated classes as predominantly CBE.
• CBE is viewed as an introductory exercise, suitable for individuals with limitations, including those in long-term care or with dementia.
• Instructors reported improvements in mood, cognition, and social benefits, but noted inappropriate use for more active older adults.

Conclusions:

• Instructor perspectives largely align with expert consensus on CBE's role in an exercise continuum.
• CBE is a valuable intervention for specific older adult populations.
• Recommendations include introducing more challenging exercises as appropriate and further research into older adults' perceptions of CBE.