When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life, many people—especially older adults—found themselves isolated and struggling to stay active. Seeing an opportunity to help, I created a simple, accessible exercise class designed to support both physical health and emotional well-being. What began as a small initiative quickly grew into a thriving community, proving that movement, connection, and resilience can flourish even in the most challenging times.
Before Therapy: Isolation and Limited Mobility
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many people—especially older adults—faced severe restrictions on their usual activities. Walks, group exercises, and other forms of movement became inaccessible, leading to a decline in both physical and mental health.
I saw an opportunity to use my skills as a physiotherapist to make a difference. With people feeling isolated and inactive, I wanted to provide something accessible, effective, and uplifting; a way to help people maintain their physical health while boosting their spirits.
During Therapy: Creating a Global Movement
I developed a simple, 20-minute exercise class that anyone, regardless of age or ability, could follow. The exercises were designed to be done from a chair and were paired with uplifting music. My focus was to subtly improve participants’ core strength—what I call the ‘True Core’™—through movements that felt approachable and enjoyable.
- Virtual Classes: With the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) highlighting my initiative in the Irish Independent newspaper, word spread. Soon, people from Ireland, England, Canada, and the U.S. joined the free Zoom sessions held five days a week.
- Outdoor Classes: To support my local community, I started socially distanced in-person classes on the green outside my home. Many of my neighbors, particularly the older residents, embraced the opportunity to move safely and connect during a time of great isolation.
After Therapy: A Thriving Community, Five Years Strong
Five years later, the live and recorded Zoom classes, and outdoor classes continue to grow and thrive. Participants of all ages and abilities have experienced remarkable improvements:
- Physical Benefits:
- One woman in the outdoor class shared that, for the first time in 20 years, she could bend down to put on her shoes.
- Many reported improved movement, balance, and strength, all thanks to the gentle yet impactful exercises.
- Mental Health Benefits:
- A grieving widow expressed that the outdoor classes had “saved her,” offering a sense of purpose and connection after her husband’s passing.
- Participants consistently highlighted the sense of community and mental uplift the classes provided.
The Power of Giving Back
This initiative reinforced a simple but profound truth: small acts of giving, when combined with professional expertise, can create extraordinary outcomes. By fostering movement, connection, and resilience during a challenging time, these classes became a lifeline for physical and mental well-being.
Today, the classes are a testament to the power of adaptability, community, and the enduring value of prioritizing health—both physical and emotional.
