What to Expect at a Physiotherapist-Led Strength and Balance Class

Trying a new exercise class can feel daunting, particularly if you have not exercised for a while, feel unsteady on your feet or are worried that you will not be able to keep up. A well-designed strength and balance class should not expect everybody in the room to start at the same level.

The Strength & Balance Group at St Barnabas Church in Joydens Wood is led by Chartered Physiotherapist Tom Morgan. It runs on Thursdays from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, costs £12 per session and is designed to provide structured strength, balance and functional exercise in a supportive group environment.

Who is the class designed for?

The group is aimed particularly at older adults and people who want to improve leg strength, balance, mobility or confidence with everyday movement. You do not need previous gym experience and you do not need to already feel fit before joining.

• You feel weaker than you used to

• You feel less steady when walking, turning or changing direction

• Getting out of a chair or climbing stairs has become harder

• You want to maintain independence and confidence as you get older

• You want a more supported alternative to exercising alone

What happens when you arrive?

You do not need to arrive knowing what every exercise is. The session begins with a gentle warm-up before moving into structured exercise stations. The class then finishes with a cool-down. Walking sticks, frames and other mobility aids are welcome if you normally use them.

What kind of exercises might be included?

The exercises are chosen to target areas that matter for everyday function. Depending on the session, these may include sit-to-stands, calf raises, stepping tasks, supported squats, balance work, lower-limb strengthening and controlled mobility exercises.

Strength and balance are trained together because daily activities rely on both. Getting out of a chair needs leg strength. Turning and changing direction require balance and coordination. Recovering from a small loss of balance may require a quick step as well as enough lower-limb strength to control your body.

Will everyone be doing exactly the same exercise?

No. Exercises can be adapted to different starting abilities. One person may complete a balance task with hand support while another uses less support. A strengthening exercise may be changed by altering the range of movement, resistance, number of repetitions or the amount of assistance used.

This matters because effective exercise should be challenging enough to create improvement without assuming that everybody needs the same challenge. NICE guidance on falls prevention recommends progressive exercise that is tailored to the person and addresses areas such as balance, coordination, strength and power where appropriate.

Why does regular strength and balance exercise matter?

Current NHS physical-activity guidance for adults aged 65 and over recommends activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility on at least two days each week. If you are worried about falling, exercises that work on strength and balance can also help you feel stronger and more confident on your feet.

What if you have pain or a medical condition?

Having a long-term condition or some joint pain does not automatically mean group exercise is unsuitable, but the right starting point depends on the individual. Please provide relevant medical information when booking. If you have recent surgery, repeated unexplained falls, new dizziness, rapidly worsening mobility or symptoms that may need medical investigation, an individual assessment may be more appropriate before joining a group.

What should you wear and bring?

• Comfortable clothing you can move in

• Supportive footwear

• Your usual walking stick, frame or mobility aid if you use one

• A drink

Where and when is the Joydens Wood class?

The Strength & Balance Group takes place at St Barnabas Church, Joydens Wood, Tile Kiln Lane, Bexley DA5 2BB. Sessions run on Thursdays from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The group starts on Thursday 20 August 2026 and costs £12 per session. The venue is wheelchair accessible and free parking is available.

How to book

Places are limited and advance booking is required. You can view the class and reserve a place online here: Book the Strength & Balance Group.

If you cannot mobilise independently, please bring a relative, friend or carer who can assist you. A 48-hour cancellation policy applies.