By Sara Kooperman, JD & Ann Gilbert

S.E.A.T. (Supported Exercise for Ageless Training) Program has revolutionized how fitness professionals engage with older adults and individuals seeking a safe, effective, and low-impact workout. Originally developed during the pandemic when pools were closed, S.E.A.T. quickly gained momentum as a powerful land-based alternative to aquatic exercise. Today, it has evolved into a comprehensive, science-backed program that continues to thrive, making it an invaluable addition to any fitness professional’s offerings.

The Connection Between Water and Chair-Based Fitness

For years, aquatic fitness has been a go-to solution for active aging, rehabilitation, and low-impact exercise. The water’s buoyancy reduces joint stress, improves range of motion, and enhances muscular endurance. However, not all participants have regular access to a pool, and some may prefer an alternative format. S.E.A.T. offers similar benefits in a controlled, land-based setting by incorporating seated and standing exercises using a chair for support.

Water instructors already understand progressions, modifications, and movement patterns that translate well into chair-based programming. Their ability to cue multi-plane movements, engage core stability, and create functional exercises gives them a natural advantage in delivering S.E.A.T. classes with confidence and expertise.

Bridging the Gap: Why Water Instructors Benefit from S.E.A.T.
Teaching S.E.A.T. allows aquatic instructors to expand their skill set and reach new demographics, especially those who may not participate in water classes due to accessibility, preference, or seasonal limitations. Land-based chair fitness is a game-changer for aquatic professionals and participants:

1. Year-Round Training & Expanded Clientele

Aquatic classes are often limited by pool availability, weather, or maintenance closures. With S.E.A.T., instructors can offer a consistent schedule that is not dependent on facility restrictions. Additionally, chair-based fitness attracts participants who might be uncomfortable in the water but still require low-impact exercise for mobility, strength, and balance.

2. Familiar Movement Patterns & Functional Training

Many water-based movements have direct land-based adaptations, making it easy to transition into the S.E.A.T. format. Instructors can replicate resistance training, core engagement, and cardiovascular conditioning using seated and supported standing exercises. Functional training principles—such as improving posture, increasing joint mobility, and enhancing balance—remain central to both aquatic and chair-based workouts.

3. Career Growth & Professional Development

Diversifying teaching formats adds value to an instructor’s expertise. Becoming certified in S.E.A.T. allows aquatic fitness professionals to expand their class offerings, attract a wider audience, and increase their earning potential. Many fitness facilities seek multi-disciplinary instructors, and adding land-based programming makes a candidate more marketable.

4. Inclusivity & Accessibility

S.E.A.T. is designed for all fitness levels, making it a highly inclusive program. Participants recovering from injury, managing chronic conditions, or experiencing limited mobility can safely engage in a S.E.A.T. workout without fear of falling. For water instructors accustomed to working with special populations, transitioning into chair-based training is a natural extension of their skill set.

5. Strengthening Mind-Body Connection

Seated exercises allow for a greater focus on mindfulness, controlled movements, and breathwork—principles often emphasized in aquatic fitness. Instructors can integrate neuromuscular exercises, cognitive drills, and rhythmic coordination into their programming, further enhancing participants’ physical and mental well-being.

The Success of S.E.A.T. & Its Future in Fitness

What started as a pandemic-driven solution has become an integral part of functional aging fitness. The ongoing success of S.E.A.T. demonstrates a demand for innovative, accessible training methods that prioritize strength, balance, mobility, and independence. With an aging population and an increasing awareness of fall prevention and longevity-focused fitness, S.E.A.T. continues to fill an essential gap in the industry.

How to Get Certified & Bring S.E.A.T. to Your Community

The Online S.E.A.T. Certification is now $100 off! Originally $259, ONLY $159. Plus, the S.E.A.T. Membership is just $9.99 per month or $99 for the year! For more information visit www.seatfitness.com.

S.E.A.T. offers a comprehensive certification that equips instructors with everything they need to successfully lead classes, engage participants, and deliver safe, effective programming.

The training covers:

• Exercise progressions & modifications
• Proper cueing and class structure
• Techniques for balance, strength, and coordination training
• Music integration & class engagement strategies

With in-person and online certification options, instructors can easily become S.E.A.T. certified at this discounted rate and start bringing this valuable program to their clients.

For water fitness instructors, transitioning into land-based S.E.A.T. programming is an opportunity to broaden expertise, retain clients, and offer inclusive, effective fitness solutions year-round. By leveraging their knowledge of low-impact exercise, functional movement, and specialized training, they can confidently deliver chair-based workouts that empower participants of all ages and abilities.

As S.E.A.T. continues to grow, it is proving to be an indispensable program that bridges the gap between aquatic and land-based fitness—ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility level, has access to safe and effective exercise.

Give S.E.A.T. a chance:  www.seatfitness.com