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Is chair-based or standing movement better for an older adult?

Neither is better for everyone. Seated movements suit people who are unsteady, tired or recovering, and standing movements, done beside something sturdy, build everyday strength and balance. Many people use both. A doctor or qualified healthcare professional can say which suits your parent.

Updated October 2026.

The short version

  • Seated suits unsteady, tired or cautious days.
  • Standing practices everyday strength and balance, with support nearby.
  • Many people mix the two.
  • Always keep something sturdy within reach.
  • Ask a doctor or qualified healthcare professional what is right.

Seated movements

Done from a firm chair, these include arm raises, biceps curls and seated marching. They take less balance and can be a good place to start.

Standing movements

Done beside a counter or chair back, these include calf raises, weight shifts, mini-squats, step-ups and heel-to-toe stands. They practice the same actions used in daily life, such as getting up and walking.

How to choose

  • Start where it feels safe, then build up gradually.
  • Be honest about the day. Some days seated is the right choice.
  • Keep support close for any standing movement.
  • Ask a qualified healthcare professional. A doctor or qualified healthcare professional can match movements to a person.

Where KinectedCare fits

In Get Stronger, the screen shows a figure and the name of the movement, and no written support instructions. That makes your own judgement and professional advice more important. Your parent chooses what to do, and can skip any movement with the arrow.

Before you start. Get Stronger is for educational use and does not replace professional medical advice. Talk with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, and stop if you feel faint, dizzy, short of breath or in pain.

Questions people ask

Should my parent hold on while standing?
Keeping a sturdy counter or chair back within reach is sensible for standing movements. A doctor or qualified healthcare professional can give personal advice.
Are there movements to avoid?
That depends on the person. If something hurts or feels unsafe, skip it and ask a professional.
Does Get Stronger tell my parent which movements need support?
No. The screen shows a figure and a name. Use your own judgement and professional advice about support.
Is this medical advice?
No. It is general information, and Get Stronger is for educational use. Talk with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program.
Does KinectedCare replace emergency services?
No. KinectedCare is not a medical device or an emergency service. If someone may be hurt, call local emergency services first.

Keep reading

Sources

  • NHS: Physical activity guidelines for older adults. nhs.uk

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