Everyday Cheapskate: The Lowdown on Chair Yoga, Free Resources, Real Benefits, No Gimmicks

Chair yoga -- it's the latest exercise trend making waves on social media, popping up in feeds with promises of gentle stretches and easy movement for all ages. And let's be honest, who hasn't felt the appeal of something that requires little more than a chair and the willingness to try?

But are the promises real or just another passing fad? That's exactly what one reader, Liz, wanted to know when she reached out to ask if I'd ever looked into chair yoga apps. So here's what I found -- and some truly free ways to bring chair yoga into your life, no gimmicks included.

Dear Cheapskate: You are always my "go-to person." Thanks for always being there on your website, daily emails and columns I read in Epoch Times. I'm wondering if you have ever looked into chair yoga apps. I see them on social media all the time. They usually say "free," then you go in and it's free for a week or something. Do you have any thoughts on chair yoga as a viable form of healthy exercise and if there might be apps or other helps that are truly free? -- Liz

Dear Liz: First, thanks so much for your kind words -- that means the world to me. As for chair yoga, it has been the focus of a lot of research that has found it to be a valuable, accessible form of exercise, particularly for people with limited mobility, seniors and those managing chronic conditions.

Studies in medical and therapeutic fields have shown a range of health benefits, including improved flexibility and mobility, enhanced well-being, pain relief, increased strength and balance, and cardiovascular support.

Some might see chair yoga as less effective because it appears simpler or less intense. However, studies confirm that its gentleness doesn't diminish its benefits. In fact, the lower impact makes it sustainable and more accessible, offering an effective solution for those who need a milder form of exercise.

I hope you'll check out the following free chair yoga resources:

FREE CHAIR YOGA APPS

Chair Yoga for Seniors by Livo: This app offers personalized workout plans tailored to your fitness level and goals, with guided sessions and video demonstrations. It's available for free on iOS devices.

Yoga-Go: While not exclusively focused on chair yoga, Yoga-Go provides a variety of yoga routines, including options suitable for beginners and those seeking gentle practices. The app offers free content alongside premium features.

ONLINE CHAIR YOGA CLASSES

Yoga with Adriene: Adriene offers a 17-minute chair yoga session designed to help you find mobility in a gentle and supportive way. This practice is available for free on her website.

Accessible Yoga with Jivana Heyman: A 60-minute complete chair yoga class that includes movement, breathing, relaxation and meditation, all done in a chair. This session is freely accessible online.

SilverSneakers: Offers a variety of free online chair yoga classes tailored for seniors, focusing on breathing exercises, seated and standing poses, and overall well-being.

YOUTUBE CHAIR YOGA SESSIONS

Chair Yoga: A 22-minute seated chair yoga session suitable for beginners and seniors. This video is part of a 28-day series available on YouTube.

15-Minute Chair Yoga Class for Seniors & Beginners: A gentle full-body chair yoga class suitable for all levels, focusing on flexibility and relaxation. Available for free on YouTube.

These resources provide a variety of options to incorporate chair yoga into your routine without any cost. Whether you prefer guided apps or online classes, there's something to suit your needs.

You can find more information with specific links to all of the resources above at EverydayCheapskate.com/ChairYoga.

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Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, "Ask Mary." This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book "Debt-Proof Living."