strength and balance
what to expect
As we age, maintaining strength and balance is essential for staying independent and reducing the risk of falls. Did you know that falls are the leading cause of hospital admissions for older adults? But the good news is - falls can be prevented!
Our 25-week Strength and Balance Programme is a free, evidence-based service designed to help you improve your mobility, confidence, and independence.
You’ll attend weekly group sessions at accessible locations across Cheshire West and Chester, with guided home exercises to help you build strength and stability. Our classes focus on gentle but effective movements designed to improve your balance and coordination.
We tailor exercises to your ability, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Whether you’re looking to regain strength after inactivity or prevent future falls, we’re here to support you every step of the way. You’ll also receive personalised advice on making your home safer to reduce fall risks.
This programme isn’t just about exercise - it’s about social connection, boosting confidence, and regaining independence. You’ll be part of a supportive community while improving your wellbeing.
This programme is free for eligible adults over 65 living in Cheshire West and Chester. You need to be referred by a GP or health/social care professional.
Check if I am eligible for the Strength and Balance service?
You are eligible
Can I refer myself?
No, a GP needs to refer you to Brio
Speak to your GP/health professional and request a referral into our Strength and Balance programme. Once we’ve received your referral, our Health Referral Team will contact you and get you booked on to your nearest session at the next available group.
It’s important to make sure you are able to commit fully to the 25-week programme before asking for your referral. Due to increasing demand of our programmes, we are unable to pause or extend memberships for our wellbeing programmes and we are unable to accept more than one referral for you within a 12-month period.
You are not eligible
This Falls prevention programme may be unsuitable for you. Please speak to your GP about other options which may be better placed to support you.
stay steady, stay active
Worried about falls or losing confidence in your balance? Watch this short video to find out how our Strength and Balance Programme can help you stay steady on your feet, hear from participants who’ve regained their confidence, and learn how to get started today!
support & tools
steady on your feet
The Steady On Your Feet website offers a wealth of advice, guidance, and resources designed to help you stay active, healthy, and independent. It’s a great way to start building confidence and maintaining your wellbeing before the programme begins.
healthbox
Healthbox have a handy Falls Prevention handbook and an Exercise sheet which demonstrates some simple strength and balance exercises you can try at home.
age uk
This Age UK Staying Steady guide explains ways you can reduce your risk of falling by looking after your health and checking your home is safe.
home hazards
Age UK Cheshire’s Home Hazard Assessment & Advice Service provides free, impartial and confidential advice and support to older people aged 55 and over living in all areas of Cheshire West & Chester. The service aims to reduce falls at home by assessing your home and providing guidance on how to keep yourself safe and well. To discuss the service, make a referral or book a home visit, contact the team on 01244 408162 or email CHF@ageukcheshire.org.uk
further resources
backward chaining
This PDF explains backward chaining - a technique that breaks down a sequence of movements to help patients learn how to get down to the floor safely.
fall prevention checklist
This PDF checklist is designed for patients to use at home to help identify potential hazards.
fall prevention exercises
This PDF provides a set of falls prevention exercises designed to help improve strength, balance, and confidence.
falls & vision
This PDF explores the link between vision and falls, highlighting how visual problems are a significant risk factor. It outlines how reduced vision can impact balance, coordination, and mobility - ultimately increasing the risk of falling.
fall prevention advise - age uk
This Age UK PDF offers practical falls prevention advice for older adults. It provides an overview of the causes and consequences of falls, along with guidance on how to reduce the risk and prevent future incidents.
fall prevention checklist - circle of care
This falls prevention checklist provides practical tips and suggestions to help reduce the risk of falls - particularly for adults aged 65 and over, for whom falls are the leading cause of hospitalisation.
the FaME programme
This PDF introduces the FaME (Falls Management Exercise) programme - an evidence-based exercise class designed to improve strength, balance, and confidence in older adults.
improve your balance
This patient handout, Improve Your Balance in 10 Minutes a Day, offers simple, practical exercises designed to enhance balance, posture, and body awareness.
resistance band exercises
This PDF provides a series of resistance band exercises specifically designed to improve strength and stability as part of falls prevention.
avoiding slips, trips & broken hips
This PDF offers practical advice on how to prevent slips, trips, and falls that can lead to serious injuries such as broken hips.
using stairs safely
This PDF, Step Up Safely, provides practical advice and simple steps to reduce the risk of falling on stairs - a common cause of non-fatal injuries, especially among older adults.
chair based class timetables
This PDF outlines the HealthBox Exercise Programme timetable, detailing scheduled classes designed to improve strength, balance, and overall fitness.
what is good posture
This PDF explains what good posture is and why it’s important for reducing strain on the back and muscles.
frequently asked questions
contact us today
Whether you’re ready to make a change or you have a question about Brio Wellbeing, it’s easy to get in touch.
Talk to our friendly team FREE on 0300 777 0033 or wellbeing@brioleisure.org, and one of our advisers will get back to you.
All calls and information you provide us with is strictly confidential.
To take the first step call: 0300 777 0033
