Everybody deserves to enjoy physical activity, regardless of injury, illness or condition that affects mobility. In this post, we share some of the low-impact and accessible forms of exercise we provide to help people with disabilities enjoy activity in a safe and enjoyable way.
Water-based activities
Water-based activities are ideal for people with disabilities due to the buoyancy of water. This reduces impact and stress on the joints while providing resistance that builds strength and improve cardiovascular fitness.
These classes allow for a full-body workout with minimal impact, making them ideal for those with arthritis, limited mobility, or joint pain. The water provides natural support, enabling participants to move more freely and safely while improving flexibility, muscle tone, and endurance. Additionally, the cooling effect of water helps with overheating and provides a relaxing environment for exercise.
Gentle Aqua is great for beginners, people in rehabilitation, pregnant mothers and people with injuries or medical needs who have been advised to participate in water activities. Those who have a little more mobility and experience may prefer Aqua Fit, Aqua Step, or Aqua Circuits.
You don’t need to take part in a structured class to enjoy water-based activity. Our swimming sessions are accessible and inclusive for people with limited mobility. Lewsey and Lea Manor pools have pool hoists which members of staff can assist you in entering and exiting the pool, while Inspire has a state-of-the-art Pool Pod. All pools have changing rooms especially designed for disabled access. Our regular lane sessions are suitable for people with limited mobility, and we also have designated Disabled Swims that welcome families and carers.
Chair-based or low-mobility classes
Chair-based and low-mobility classes are specifically designed for people with limited mobility or disabilities that affect standing and balance. Chair Fitness involves performing exercises from a seated position, ensuring safety while still giving you a surprisingly strenuous aerobic workout and muscle strengthening.
Stretch & Relax focuses on improving mobility and flexibility through gentle stretching, which can alleviate stiffness and improve joint movement without straining the body. Both classes help improve circulation, posture, and overall physical well-being while accommodating the needs of people with physical limitations.
Mindful movement & stretching
Classes such as Pilates, Body Balance, Tai Chi and Yoga focus on slow, controlled movements that enhance flexibility, balance, and core strength. These activities promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve posture, all of which are particularly beneficial for people with disabilities affecting their mobility, strength, or mental health.
The controlled breathing and mindfulness in Yoga and Tai Chi help regulate stress levels, which can improve emotional well-being. These classes also provide adaptations for different fitness levels, making them accessible for a wide range of participants, including beginners or those with chronic conditions.
Dance and social movement
Dance and social movement classes offer a fun and engaging way for people with disabilities to stay active. Line Dancing and Belly Dancing focus on rhythm, coordination, and balance, with routines that can be modified to suit different fitness levels.
These classes promote cardiovascular health, improve mobility, and provide a sociable environment, helping you build confidence and improve your mental health through social interaction. For those with limited mobility, modified movements and slower tempos still allow for participation without too much physical strain.
Gentle strength and core work
Core stability classes help people strengthen the muscles that support the spine and improve posture, which can be particularly helpful for those with disabilities affecting balance or those prone to back pain. By targeting core muscles, these classes improve overall functional strength, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance stability for daily activities. Gentle exercises involving fit balls, light weights, and steps can be easily adapted for different abilities, meaning you can work at their own pace without causing strain.
If you live with mobility issues or disabilities that affect your ability to exercise, we hope you’ve found something you can enjoy at one of our centres. If you need any further information on how Active Luton can support your fitness goals, please get in touch with our friendly team, who will be happy to help.