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Libraries help residents stay active with new seated exercise sessions

Published
People across Gloucestershire are being invited to get moving and improve their wellbeing, through a new programme of seated exercise sessions taking place in local libraries which are free to attend.

Gloucestershire Libraries have partnered with Cheltenham Town Community Trust to host weekly sessions designed to help people improve their strength, balance and mobility in a friendly and supportive environment.

The sessions are particularly suitable for older adults and anyone who would benefit from gentle, low-impact physical activity. They also provide an opportunity for people to meet others and stay socially connected in their local community.

They are led by qualified coaches and will be delivered in small groups, without accompanying music, so noise levels are kept to a minimum to ensure there is no disruption to other library users.

Funded by Sport England, the programme will run during term time at five locations across the county:

  • Longlevens Library – Mondays, 11am to 11.45am
  • Winchcombe Library – Tuesdays, 11.30am to 12.15pm
  • Stroud Library – Wednesdays, 10am to 10.45am
  • Quedgeley Library – Thursdays, 11am to 11.45am
  • Oakley Interactive Space – Fridays, 12.30pm to 1.15pm

The initiative highlights the growing role libraries play as community hubs, offering opportunities that support health, wellbeing and social connection alongside access to books, information and digital services.

To find out more or book a place, visit www.ctfccp.com or call 01242 518630.

Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, cabinet member for libraries at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "Our libraries are much more than places to borrow books. They are welcoming community spaces where people can learn new skills, meet others and access activities that support their wellbeing.

"These free seated exercise sessions are a great example of how libraries can help people stay active and connected. The sessions are designed to be accessible and inclusive, and I would encourage anyone who would benefit from gentle physical activity to give them a try."

Oliver Roberts, deputy chief executive at Cheltenham Town Community Trust, said: “We know that finding accessible and welcoming opportunities to be active can make a real difference to people’s physical health, wellbeing and social connection. Working with Gloucestershire Libraries allows us to take activity directly into communities and deliver sessions in places that people already know and trust.”