Gentle Exercise Classes For Adults

Active Forever is our friendly, gentle exercise and wellbeing programme for adults aged 50+, helping people move more, feel stronger and stay connected.

Whether you are getting back into exercise, looking for seated exercise classes, or want a welcoming group where you can enjoy being active at your own pace, Active Forever makes it easier to take that first step. 

Who Active Forever is for 

Active Forever is for adults aged 50+ who want to be more active in a friendly, low-pressure environment. 

It is especially suitable for: 

  • Adults aged 50+ looking for a gentle way to stay active
  • Anyone returning to exercise after a break 
  • People who feel nervous about joining a new class
  • Adults who want to improve mobility, confidence and everyday movement
  • Those who enjoy social, community-based activities
  • People who want to move at their own pace without pressure to keep up

Sessions are flexible and supportive, so people can take part in a way that feels comfortable for them.

Gentle exercise classes for older adults 

Active Forever offers friendly, low-impact exercise classes for adults aged 50+, with sessions built around movement, confidence and community.

Classes take place in community venues, lunch clubs, assisted living homes and local wellbeing spaces. There is no pressure to keep up or get everything right. Everyone works at their own pace, with seated and standing options available so people can build confidence little by little.

Sessions may include seated exercises, beginners Pilates, line dancing and other gentle activities designed to support different abilities and starting points. Many classes also include time for a chat and refreshments, because feeling better is not just about movement; it is about connection too.

We believe exercise should feel welcoming, enjoyable and achievable, whatever your age, confidence level or starting point.

What People Say

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stephanie brown profile picture
stephanie brown
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Was lovely working with Gaynor and the team. The event was well organised and such a lovely atmosphere
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Atusa Panahi profile picture
Atusa Panahi
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Always a pleasure to work with We are Active Families - I've been working with them now for a year or so doing soundbaths with gongs. Their passion to help and support individuals with their wellness by providing wonderful experiences for all. Can highly recommend.
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Natalie Jayne profile picture
Natalie Jayne
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This was my first event I attended. I was there for the full day and it was great from start to finish. The staff were so lovely and friendly and really helpful! There was always someone there to help or give information about your next activity. It was really well planned and organised and can’t wait to get a long to another activity!
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Helen Wardropper
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Wellness Collective Active Families Carnival event 5th July 2026, Sunderland. Top class!!!- In ONE day we chose different activities such as samba, sound baths, beach yoga, indian head massage, doodles, hypnotherapy, circus skills, skincare classes and much more! Top VALUE FOR MONEY event, excellent present for someone special in your life who you want to have the ULTIMATE wellness day. There are some very exciting events in the pipeline too! Cant wait for the next one. HUGE well done and appreciation to all involved with pulling these together. The line ups keep getting more exciting, dont miss out....🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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Linda Finn profile picture
Linda Finn
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A brilliant day to reset and recharge. Informative speakers/activities. Lovely stalls, delicious lunch and rounded off with a super fun session of bingo! A very well organised event, would highly recommend 👌
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Susan Addison profile picture
Susan Addison
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What a great day we had at the Spring event. Thoroughly enjoyed the yoga session on the beach and the dip in the sea. The mini afternoon tea was just enough and there was plenty of drinks offered throughout the day. Enjoyed the pilates and sound bath sessions too and the fun bongo bingo session to close the day. Very well organized and all team very friendly and helpful. Thanks for a lovely day.
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Jessica Smith profile picture
Jessica Smith
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A truly fabulous day! Feel completely relaxed and restored after a day of activity and education all linked to wellness. All the instructors and facilitators were so skilled in their respective areas. I can’t thank you all enough. Going into the week ahead feeling awesome!
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lisa ketley
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Excellent evening. sound bath and yoga were amazing thank you!
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Ean Mackenzie profile picture
Ean Mackenzie
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Excellent way to exercise. Music fun and Loren is lovely
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Holly Kelly profile picture
Holly Kelly
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Brilliant event, great opportunity to try new things! Can’t wait for the next one!

Where sessions take place 

Active Forever sessions run across the North East in friendly, accessible community settings.

You’ll find sessions in local venues, lunch clubs, assisted living homes and wellbeing spaces places where people already feel part of the community. Some people join a class close to home, while others try a few different sessions across the Active Families timetable until they find the one that feels right.

To find your nearest Active Forever session, view our Sunderland Classes or Washington Classes pages, download the latest timetable, or contact the team and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of gentle exercise classes are included?

Sessions can include gentle seated exercise, standing exercise options, beginners’ Pilates, line dancing and other low-impact activities designed to support movement, wellbeing and social connection. 

Are the sessions suitable for beginners?

Yes. Active Forever is ideal for people who are new to exercise, returning after a break, or looking for a more supportive and manageable way to stay active.

Where do Active Forever sessions take place?

Sessions are delivered in community venues, lunch clubs, assisted living homes and other local settings across Sunderland, Washington and the wider North East.

Do the classes only focus on exercise?

No. Active Forever also supports wellbeing, confidence and connection. Many sessions include refreshments and time to chat, helping people enjoy the social side of being active too. 

Can the activities be adapted for different abilities?

Yes. Sessions are designed to be supportive, sociable and tailored to all abilities, helping people take part in a way that feels safe and comfortable.

How do I find a class near me?

You can check the timetable, explore our Sunderland Classes or Washington Classes, or contact us and we can help point you towards the most suitable session.