Sit and Be Fit is television series created by Mary Ann Wilson, RN, based on her experience as geriatrics and rehabilitation nurse. The exercises featured in the program are designed for people over age 55 and those of any age with limited physical ability or chronic health conditions. The exercise routines, which debuted in 1987, can be viewed on PBS affiliates throughout the U.S. VHS and DVD products are available through the website of the non-profit Sit and Be Fit organization.
Exercise Principles
Sit and Be Fit exercises for the elderly emphasize "functional fitness," meaning they are designed to strengthen the body for daily activities. Wilson incorporates moves to correct poor posture, which becomes more of a problem during the course of aging. The Sit and Be Fit exercises also balance the body by stretching overworked muscles and strengthening weak ones. Finally, the exercise routines encourage deeper, more efficient breathing.
Level of Ability
Depending on a person's physical capability and specific medical conditions, some exercises in the series can be modified to accommodate limitations. While the series includes some standing exercises, seated versions of those exercises are demonstrated for people of limited ability. Both seated and standing exercises are designed to increase flexibility, range of motion, strength and balance.
Specific Conditions
Certain health conditions, such as arthritis, osteoporosis and chronic pain, can be improved through gentle exercise. Wilson developed specific exercises for Sit and Be Fit, in conjunction with physical therapists, to help improve these conditions. The arthritis workouts, for example, focus on strengthening and stretching the muscle surrounding the affected joint. These condition-specific workouts take into account common limitations associated with the disease.
Professional Endorsement
The National Institute on Aging emphasizes the importance physical activity as a means to slow the effects of aging and improve health outcomes among the elderly. Those with limited capability or specific health conditions can benefit, says the institute, by engaging in activities appropriate to their ability without straining. Sit and Be Fit exercises for the elderly have been endorsed by physicians and physical therapists across the country, according to the website, for providing a method of exercise that accommodates age and health-related limitations with effective results.
Effectiveness
Although no clinical studies have been conducted, results of a survey on the Sit and Be Fit website suggest these exercise for the elderly represent a viable and effective means of improving health and ability. The data suggests that Sit and Be Fit exercises improve flexibility, strength, balance and range of motion in subjects age 65 to 100.
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