Chair yoga: It’s the latest exercise trend making waves on social media, popping up in feeds with promises of gentle stretches and easy moves 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 these promises real or just another passing fad? That’s exactly what one reader, Liz, wanted to know when she asked me if I’d ever looked into chair yoga apps. So here’s what I found – and some truly free ways to introduce chair yoga into your life, no gimmicks included.

Dear Cheapskate: You are still my “go-to person.” Thank you for always being there on your website, in your daily emails, and in the columns I read in The Epoch Times. I’m wondering if you’ve ever looked into chair yoga apps. I see them all the time on social media. They usually say “free” and 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 whether there might be apps or other truly free aids? -Liz

Dear Liz: First of all, thank you so much for your kind words – it means the world to me. As for chair yoga, it has been the subject of much research which has shown that it is a useful and accessible form of exercise, particularly for people with reduced mobility, the elderly and those with disabilities. struggling with chronic illnesses.

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

Some might consider chair yoga less effective because it seems simpler or less intense. However, studies confirm that its softness in no way diminishes its benefits. In fact, its lower impact makes it sustainable and more accessible, providing an effective solution for those who need a gentler 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 is available for free on iOS devices.

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

ONLINE CHAIR YOGA CLASSES

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

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

SilverSneakers: Offers a variety of free online chair yoga classes suitable for seniors, focusing on breathing exercises, seated and standing poses, and general 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 and Beginners: A full-body chair yoga class, suitable for all levels, focusing on flexibility and relaxation. Available for free on YouTube.

These resources offer a variety of options for incorporating chair yoga into your routine at no cost. Whether you prefer guided apps or online courses, there is something to suit your needs.

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