Pull up a chair

By Brandie Majeau
Pembina Place is a bustle of activity this fall, specifically, Mondays. The beginning of
each new week is traditionally marked with a statement regarding the “I hate Mondays”
mentality. However, Pembina Place in partnership with the Town of Redwater is facilitating a
change for that attitude. Offered weekly from 10:45-11:45, chair fitness is a way to connect
with community members and engage in low impact activity and fitness.
Chair fitness can engage leg, arm, and core muscles all within a seated position. This is a
great exercise option and opportunity for all ages and fitness levels who may be at risk of
injuries or falls. The benefits of exercise are well known, but chair fitness provides stretching
and strength improvement and increased flexibility without placing a heavy strain on the body.
This form of physical activity may be especially beneficial to seniors to increase mobility. The
increase of movement increases blood flow throughout the body and eases joint pain and
reduces health problems that arise from a sedentary lifestyle.
Currently Monday Chair Fitness at Pembina Place has a dozen participants registered,
drop ins are also always welcome. One of the benefits of this program is the adaptability for all
levels of fitness, participants may complete their sessions in the seated position or stand to
challenge their fitness level. The instructor is highly knowledgeable and will collaborate with
participants to create individualized workouts to suit their level of ability and encourage
continued movement and exercise. In addition to the physical benefits of maintaining physical
activity, exercise also improves mental health. Engaging in regular exercise affects chemicals in
the brain, such as serotonin, and can improve mood, reduce stress and aid in better sleep.
While this program is a great option for senior’s and individuals with mobility issues,
everyone is welcome to participate. Chair fitness provides a friendly space to come together
and is a fun and energetic way to begin the week. Some participants are also pairing their
weekly workout with the indoor walking program offered Mondays-Fridays, from 9am-noon.
The indoor walking program offers a safe and stable walking surface and is available in all
weather conditions. Participants that choose to come early on Monday mornings find this as a
wonderful way to warm up and benefit their social health before beginning Chair Fitness. “I
hate Mondays” can be replaced with, “Good Morning, Monday! Pull up a chair!”