Arm and leg exercises from a chair

By Joanna Byers Occupational Therapist, Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, UK

A simple exercise framework can be practiced at home, and from the comfort of your chair, whether with the help of a physiotherapist, family member, or even on your own.

Light exercises can not only help improve symptoms and enhance movement and flexibility, they also renew confidence and increase enjoyment of daily life, apart from making you more independent.

Exercises you can start with

Here is a pictorial depiction of what exercises you can start with. A short preparation, followed by shoulder rolls, arm raises, exercising of wrists and elbows, rotation of the ankles, and straightening of the knees. You can also do a march while seated!

Pictorial guide to gentle arm and leg exercises from a chair: a short preparation, shoulder rolls, arm raises, wrist and elbow exercises, ankle rotations, knee straightening and a seated march

Arms and legs exercises guide

View the arms and legs exercises guide here

View guide (PDF)

(Dr Jo Byers is a UK-based occupational therapist who specialises in palliative care and helping patients maintain their independence and quality of life. She also works with the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, Cambridge)