Accessible Strength : The Inclusive Way to Build Power, Confidence and Connection - Yoga in a Chair!
Our Chair yoga Trainer Dina Cohen in her home studio.
If you’ve ever wanted to feel stronger but worried a gym or weights class wasn’t for you, Accessible Strength Norwich at Yantra Studio might be exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Blending the supportive ethos of chair yoga with evidence-based strength training, this class welcomes every body — whether you’re rebuilding after injury, navigating chronic pain, using a wheelchair, or simply looking for a kinder way to grow stronger.
And this week, you can try it for free:
👉 Free Trial Class: Wednesday 5 November, 11-11.45am
👉 Teacher: Helen Brown (@helenbeeyoga)
👉 Use code: LOVEMOVEMENTOCT
👉 Valid until Sunday 2 November
Spaces fill quickly, so book your mat (or chair!) today and discover how empowering accessible movement can be.
What Is “Accessible Strength”?
Accessible Strength at Yantra Studio Norwich takes the principles of functional fitness and makes them truly inclusive. You’ll work through carefully structured movements — squats, pushes, pulls, balances and lifts — with as much or as little support as you need.
The goal? To build strength, stability and confidence in everyday movement — from climbing stairs to carrying shopping or getting up from the floor — all in a friendly, body-positive environment.
As Helen explains,
“We’re not chasing personal bests; we’re cultivating everyday power. It’s about feeling capable and connected in your own body.”
An Accessible Studio for Every Body
Yantra Studio is committed to accessibility in every sense. Our Norwich studio is wheelchair accessible, located on the ground floor with ramp access directly from street level. There’s no need to worry about steps or barriers — just a warm welcome and an environment designed to make everyone feel comfortable.
Whether you arrive with a walking aid, wheelchair, or simply a curious mind, you’ll find plenty of space to move, adapt and participate fully in class.
Why Strength Training Matters (and Why It’s for Everyone)
Modern research is clear: strength training is one of the most effective ways to improve health, longevity and quality of life.
The World Health Organization recommends muscle-strengthening activities at least twice per week for all adults, regardless of age or ability.
A 2022 review in Sports Medicine found that progressive resistance training increased muscle mass and bone density in adults over 50, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and falls.
A large meta-analysis in JAMA Psychiatry (Gordon et al., 2018) showed that resistance exercise significantly reduces symptoms of depression, even at low volumes.
Yet, many people are excluded by traditional gym culture — whether due to pain, accessibility, confidence or simply environment. Accessible Strength Norwich bridges that gap by creating a safe, inclusive space to experience these same physiological and mental benefits.
Science-Backed Benefits of Accessible Strength
1. Stronger Muscles & Bones
After the age of 30, we naturally lose 3–8% of muscle mass per decade. Strength training counteracts this decline, helping maintain independence and vitality. In older adults, resistance work has been shown to increase hip and spine bone density, crucial for fall prevention and long-term health.
2. Better Balance & Coordination
By integrating chair and standing variations, Accessible Strength activates stabilising muscles and enhances proprioception (the body’s sense of position). A 2019 Cochrane review confirmed that programmes combining balance and strength work reduce fall risk in older adults by up to 34%.
3. Improved Mood & Cognitive Function
Lifting weights or resistance bands doesn’t just build muscle — it releases endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” brain chemicals. Regular resistance training has been linked to reduced anxiety, sharper cognition and better sleep.
4. Pain Management & Joint Health
Gentle, progressive loading is one of the most effective tools for managing arthritis and chronic pain. A 2024 meta-analysis found strength training significantly reduces pain and improves mobility in osteoarthritis, particularly when movements are slow, supported and consistent — exactly how Helen structures her sessions.
5. Empowerment Through Movement
The biggest transformation many students report isn’t physical — it’s psychological. The moment you realise you can stand up without using your hands, or carry your groceries more easily, is a quiet revolution in confidence.
What to Expect in Class
Accessible Strength sessions are warm, welcoming and non-competitive. Helen designs each class to meet people where they are:
Gentle Warm-Up: Seated or standing mobility to loosen joints and awaken stabilisers.
Strength Circuits: Simple compound movements — squats, presses, hinges and pulls — performed with body weight, light dumbbells or resistance bands. Tempo is key: slow, steady, controlled.
Balance & Core Work: Standing or supported holds to train stability and coordination.
Cool-Down & Breath: Mindful breathing to settle the nervous system and anchor the benefits.
Helen’s unique background in yoga for women over 45 and functional strength means you’ll leave class both grounded and energised. Her clear instruction and compassionate energy make even the most hesitant beginners feel at ease.
Why Norwich Loves This Class
Norwich has a thriving wellness community, but few classes bridge the gap between yoga, rehab and strength training quite like this one. Yantra Studio’s light-filled space, combined with Helen’s calm expertise, makes Accessible Strength Norwich a perfect fit for:
Adults returning to movement after injury or illness
Beginners who want to build confidence safely
Over-40s aiming to protect joints and bone density
Wheelchair users or anyone seeking adaptive fitness options
Anyone wanting a slower, more mindful approach to exercise
It’s fitness, Norwich-style: inclusive, supportive and rooted in community.
How to Join the Free Trial
Date: Tuesday 5 November
Time: 11 am
Location: Yantra Studio, Norwich
Teacher: Helen Brown (@helenbeeyoga)
Offer: Free class with code LOVEMOVEMENTOCT (valid through Sunday 2 November) Purchase a Single Express class credit here and use the code at checkout
Booking is simple — down load the App or make an online account here the Accessible Strength class on 5 Nov, and enter your code at checkout. Bring comfortable clothes, a bottle of water, and an open mind. All equipment is provided.
Small Steps, Big Change
You don’t need to lift heavy to feel strong. You just need to start — with guidance, care and consistency. Accessible Strength Norwich offers a safe entry point into strength work that honours your body’s needs and celebrates progress in every form.
As Helen likes to remind her students:
It’s not about perfection; it’s about participation. Each time you show up, you’re reinforcing your own resilience.
Join the movement that’s helping Norwich rediscover strength as self-care — one accessible class at a time.
References
World Health Organization. Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour (2020).
O’Bryan SJ et al. Progressive Resistance Training and Bone Density in Older Adults. Sports Medicine, 2022.
Gordon BR et al. Resistance Exercise Training Reduces Depressive Symptoms: Meta-analysis of RCTs. JAMA Psychiatry, 2018.
Sherrington C et al. Exercise for Preventing Falls in Older People Living in the Community. Cochrane Review, 2019.
Lim J et al. Resistance Training for Osteoarthritis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. 2024.
NHS UK. Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults.