Exercise Classes

Do I need to be fit or strong to do Yoga?

• No – Yoga for Wellbeing has been especially designed for those who are looking to move and mobilise their bodies in a gentle and introductory way
• Yoga is a low level class
• You need to be able to get down and up from the floor

Do I need to have done Yoga before?

• No – Yoga for Wellbeing is for beginners, those who have never exercised, those who are returning to exercise and those who have exercised but would like to do this programme

What movement will I do in a Yoga for Wellbeing session?

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lying down
• Postures
• Stretching
• Breathing
• Grounding

Will doing Yoga hurt?

• No – doing yoga won’t hurt, and it shouldn’t be painful either
• You are not likely to injure yourself doing Yoga especially as you will be taught by a very experienced Yoga teacher who will guide you to move as you are able to
• You will learn how your body feels when you move and mobilise your muscles and joints
• The movements in Yoga will create a lengthening and tightening sensation in your muscles which you will hold for short periods of time
• The lengthening and stretching movements might be unfamiliar to you, you may experience this as discomfort, you will practice these movements each week to get used to them
• Overtime, you will get better and better at each movement, they will become easier and you will become familiar with how your body and mind feels when you move

Can I do Yoga for Wellbeing even though I have other health conditions?

• Yes, you are likely to be able to do Yoga with other health conditions
• You will complete a health questionnaire before starting so that we can best ensure your safety
• Yoga is considered a low risk form of physical activity

Why should I bother to do Yoga? (Feedback from participants)

• A sense of purpose in your life
• Create a consistent routine in your day and week
• Improved self-confidence helping you try other and new things
• Increase your mind and body awareness – how breathing can help you feel calmer, how movement can help you feel less anxious and stressed
• Connect with others and build social relationships
• Share experiences about how you and others are doing
• Learn coping techniques that you can use in your daily life

When is Yoga for Wellbeing?

• Tuesdays
• 9.15am to 11.15am
• 2 hours per week
• Delivered as a 12-week course
• Courses begin in January, April, September

Two-hours is a long time, will I be doing Yoga for the full two hours?

• No – you’ll be doing yoga for about 45 minutes to an hour, this will include postures, stretching, relaxing, breathing and grounding.

Where is Yoga for Wellbeing?

• King Arthurs Way Hall, Andover, Hants SP10 4BS
• Ground level access
• Ample free parking
• Bus stop nearby

Who is Yoga for Wellbeing for?

• People living in and around Andover
• Those with low to moderate mental health problems including low mood, stress, anxiety and depression

What have people said about Yoga for Wellbeing?

• “Yoga is a tool in your toolbox, to help you cope with daily life.”
• “After my session I feel kindness in myself, I share it with everyone else.”
• “My heart rate dropped by the end of the session.”
• “I wasn’t going to come today because I had a massive panic attack yesterday, but I know that once I’ve been I would feel better in myself for going.”
• “Yoga won’t cure your symptoms but it will help provide you with respite from them.”
• “Yoga disconnects me from my thoughts which is a good thing.”

What should I wear?

• Loose, comfortable clothing that you can move freely in and that you feel happy in

Can I wear a Hijab?

• Yes
• Please be advised that groups may be mixed, with men and women in attendance

Do I need to bring anything?

• Yes – please bring a water bottle, a blanket and a cushion with you
• You will be given a mat and 2 blocks at your first session, these are for you to keep – you will then need to bring them to each session

Can I bring someone with me for support?

• Yes, if this will help you feel more comfortable
• We cannot guarantee that they will be able to take part due to class numbers

What happens in a Yoga for Wellbeing session?

• Arrival and getting ready, supported by a Yoga therapist and volunteers
• How are you this week? – opportunity to share experience if happy to
• Yoga – postures, stretching, breathing, relaxing, meditation/mindfulness
• How are you feeling now? – opportunity to share experience if happy to
• Refreshments and chat

How much does it cost?

• Nothing
• It’s free due to funding having been secured
• We welcome voluntary donations to Valley Leisure Ltd (Reg charity number 800760) via cash or card. These will help support the ongoing work of the charity to help people move more and feel better

How can I take part?

• Register interest by phone, email or use the “Getting started with Yoga for Wellbeing” on this page.
• 0300 373 1066
• [email protected]

What happens after the 12-week programme?

During the 12-week programme, participants will be educated and informed about ways to keep moving and mobile at home. Participants will be signposted to locally available activities including locally available Yoga classes delivered by Doda Yoga, I Can Move More services provided by Valley Leisure, Yoga with Sport in Mind at Andover Leisure Centre, and the Community Orchard at Enham Trust for volunteer gardening activities.

We are looking to develop a rolling Yoga for Wellbeing class for those who complete the 12-week courses.

Who is delivering Yoga for Wellbeing?

Valley Leisure Ltd are leading the project, Doda Yoga is delivering the project, the project is being supported by Andover Mind with help from Andover Primary Care Network.

Why Yoga?

Yoga was considered the best activity to deliver patients’ desired outcomes.

In 2024, 68 patients living with anxiety and depression participated in an engagement survey. 68% considered it important to improve their health and feelings of well-being. 97% were interested in becoming more active. People wanted to feel energised, calmer, healthier, confident, supported and more resilient.

Why Yoga for Wellbeing?

Practicing yoga supports people in achieving all 5 ways to wellbeing – being active, taking notice, learning, connecting and giving.

What barriers did participants mention?

• Not being able to find out information about where and how to be active
  • Collaboration – VLL, AM and APCN
  • Localised delivery – KAWH, area of need
  • Multiple comms methods
• Confidence to get started
  • Engaging promo
  • Relationship building – collaborators
  • Yoga therapist supported by volunteers
• Cost
  • Free of charge to those who cannot afford
  • Option to donate for those who can and want to
• Fear of being judged
  • Creation of a safe space and a place to be active
  • ‘All in in together’

What is Chair Yoga?

• Chair Yoga is a gentle, fully seated practice designed to help you move, breathe, and feel more at ease in your body. It’s a calm and supportive way to look after your wellbeing.

Who is it for?

• Everyone is welcome. This class is especially supportive if you:
  • Have limited mobility
  • Are managed a health condition
  • Are recovering from illness or injury
  • Simply prefer a slower, gentler pace

Do I need to be fit or flexible?

• Not at all – you don’t need any experience or flexibility, just a willingness to move in a way that feels right for you.

Is it only for older adults?

• No – Chair Yoga is for anyone who would benefit from a more accessible, supportive style of movement.

Can I join if I use a wheelchair?

• Absolutely! The class is inclusive and adaptable, and you’ll always be encouraged to move in a way that works for you.

What if I have pain or a health condition?

• You are always in control of your body:
  • Move gently and within your comfort
  • Nothing should feel forced or painful
  • If unsure, it’s best to check with your GP beforehand

When are the sessions?

• Classes run in pre-booked blocks to help create a consistent and supportive group. Blocks may be 5,6 or 7 weeks in length and sessions take place on Thursdays from 2:15pm – 3:15pm.

How much does it cost?

• Classes are booked and paid for in blocks:
  • 5 Weeks: £75.00
  • 6 Weeks: £90.00
  • 7 Weeks: £105.00

How do I book and pay?

• Booking is managed through the I Can Therapy Centre, and your space is secured once payment is made.

What if the class is full?

• You can join the waiting list, and we’ll be in touch as soon as a space becomes available.

Where is the class held?

• Royal British Legion, 4 Western Road, Andover SP10 2JG

Is there parking available?

• Yes – there is parking available at the venue.

Is the venue accessible?

• Yes, the building is wheelchair accessible, with step-free access via a ramp.

What should I wear?

• Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily – bare feet are encouraged, if possible, but not essential.

Do I need to bring anything?

• Just yourself and a bottle of water – we’ll take care of the rest.

Is the class fully seated?

• Yes, everything is done from the chair, making it gentle and accessible throughout.

What happens in a class?

• Each session includes:
  • Gentle, guided movement
  • Stretching and mobility work
  • Simple breath work
  • Time to relax and unwind

What if I can’t do everything?

• That’s absolutely okay – you’re encouraged to rest, adapt, and move in a way that feels supportive for you on that day.

What are the benefits of Chair Yoga?

• Many people notice:
  • Improved mobility and ease of movement
  • Better posture and circulation
  • Reduced stress and tension
  • A greater sense of calm and connection

What if I miss a class?

• As spaced are reserved in advance, refunds aren’t available for missed sessions.

What is Steady & Strong?

• Steady & Strong is a structured exercise class designed to improve balance, strength and confidence.
• It focuses on helping you stay steady on your feet and reduce the risk of falls.

Who is it for?

• The class is suitable for:
  • Older adults (65+)
  • Anyone experiencing unsteadiness
  • Those recovering from a fall
  • People concerned about balance or bone health

Do I need to be fit?

• No – the class is designed to support all abilities and exercises can be adapted to suit you.

I have a health condition – can I take part?

• In most cases, yes:
  • You are encouraged to work at your own pace
  • Exercises can be adapted
  • If unsure, please check with your GP before attending

When are the sessions?

• Classes run in pre-booked blocks to provide consistency and progress. Sessions take place on a Wednesday:
  • Class 1: 11am – 12pm
  • Class 2: 12:15pm – 1:15pm

How much does it cost?

• Classes are booked and paid for in blocks:
  • 6 Weeks: £45.00

How do I book and pay?

• Booking is made through the I Can Therapy Centre
• Payment secures your place
• Card payment is preferred

Where are the classes held?

• Community Church, Charlton Road, Andover SP10 3JH

Is there parking available?

• Yes – parking is available at the venue.

Is the venue accessible?

• Yes – the venue is accessible for those with limited mobility.

What should I wear?

• Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement
• Flat, supportive and secure footwear is strongly recommended

Do I need to bring anything?

• A bottle of water
• Any mobility aids you normally use
• Resistance bands (these can be purchased at I Can Therapy Centre)

What do the exercises involve?

• Classes include:
  • Seated and standing exercises
  • Strength work using resistance bands
  • Balance and posture exercises
  • Functional movements to support everyday activities

Will I have to stand?

• Some exercises are standing, but support is always available and you can sit whenever needed.

What if I can’t do everything?

• That’s okay – we recommend that you go at your own pace, rest when needed and adapt exercises to suit your ability.

What are the benefits of Steady & Strong?

• Regular attendance can help:
  • Improve balance and stability
  • Increase strength
  • Reduce the risk of falls
  • Support bone health
  • Build confidence in everyday movement

What if I miss a class?

• As sessions are booked in blocks, refunds are not available for missed classes.