Business Details
41 Years
experience
Chair Exercise Programs for Healthy Aging
Founded in 1985, Sit & Be Fit has dedicated over three decades to empowering individuals to improve their lives through functional fitness. Our mission-driven approach combines medically informed exercise programs with accessible media-based delivery, serving seniors and individuals with health conditions. With 32 years of continuous public television presence and 31 national awards, we've established ourselves as a trusted leader in healthy aging. Our team of certified fitness professionals, led by TV host Mary Ann Wilson, RN, develops research-backed workouts that address specific health challenges like osteoporosis, diabetes, and Parkinson's. Through strategic partnerships with PBS stations and digital platforms, we've achieved 80% market coverage in top 25 U.S. markets, delivering over 42,000 annual airings.Our nonprofit model ensures programs remain accessible to all, while our consulting team of medical specialists maintains the highest standards of exercise safety and efficacy. Viewer testimonials consistently highlight our program's transformative impact on mobility, balance, and quality of life across diverse age groups.
Services
Chair Exercise DVDs
Streaming Workouts
Exercise Accessories
Health Education Books
Audio Programs
Condition-Specific Workouts
Fitness Certification Courses
Gift Cards
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- 32 years of experience in senior fitness programming
- Developed by registered nurse Mary Ann Wilson with medical specialists
- Available free through 80% of top 25 market PBS stations
- 31 national awards for health programming excellence
- Research-backed workouts addressing 6+ chronic conditions
What people say
Easy safe workouts
Improved balance
Doctor-recommended
Effective for chronic conditions
Transformative results
Services
Chair Exercise DVDs
Our chair exercise DVDs provide structured fitness programs designed for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. Each DVD focuses on specific health needs like arthritis, osteoporosis, or diabetes, featuring modifications for varying ability levels. The workouts combine strength training, balance exercises, and flexibility routines to improve overall functional fitness.
Streaming Workouts
The streaming service offers 24/7 access to our complete workout library through any internet-connected device. Subscribers can follow along with TV host Mary Ann Wilson and her team at their convenience, making it ideal for travelers or those preferring home-based exercise. The platform includes progress tracking and personalized workout recommendations.
Condition-Specific Programs
We develop specialized exercise programs addressing specific health conditions including Parkinson's disease, COPD, and neuropathy. Created in consultation with medical professionals, these workouts incorporate therapeutic movements to improve symptoms and daily functionality. Each program includes progressions and safety guidelines tailored to the condition.
Fitness Certification Courses
Our continuing education courses train fitness instructors in adapting exercises for older adults and special populations. The curriculum covers exercise modifications, safety protocols, and effective teaching strategies. Certified professionals gain access to our proprietary teaching methods and receive ongoing support resources.
Exercise Accessories
We offer specialized equipment designed to enhance workout effectiveness including resistance bands, stability balls, and exercise towels. These tools help improve strength training resistance and provide sensory feedback during exercises. All accessories meet our strict safety standards and are demonstrated in our programs.
People
Mary Ann Wilson
TV Host and Founder
Registered nurse and fitness expert Mary Ann Wilson founded Sit & Be Fit in 1985. With over 30 years of television experience, she has received multiple awards for her innovative approach to senior fitness. Her work combines nursing expertise with exercise science to create safe, effective workouts.
Gretchen
Co-Instructor
Gretchen, Mary Ann Wilson's daughter, serves as co-instructor demonstrating modified exercise versions. With a background in fitness instruction, she helps make workouts accessible to diverse ability levels. Her on-screen presence enhances the program's intergenerational appeal and instructional clarity.
Questions
What makes Sit and Be Fit different from other exercise programs?
Our medically informed workouts combine nursing expertise with physical therapy principles, specifically designed for seniors and individuals with chronic conditions.
How can I access Sit and Be Fit programs?
Watch free on 80% of top 25 market PBS stations, stream online with a subscription, or purchase DVDs and digital downloads through our website.
Are the workouts suitable for beginners?
Yes! Our programs offer modifications for all fitness levels, with many users starting with no prior exercise experience.
Do doctors recommend Sit and Be Fit?
Yes, we're recommended by physicians and physical therapists nationwide for rehabilitation and general wellness programs.
What equipment do I need?
Most workouts require only a chair. We offer optional accessories like resistance bands and stability balls to enhance workouts.
Is there research supporting the program's effectiveness?
Yes, our workouts are based on clinical research and developed with input from medical specialists in geriatrics and rehabilitation.
Videos