By Julie Robinson, Founder & CEO, Move it or Lose it

Julie Robinson is the founder of Move it or Lose it and a specialist in exercise for older adults. With over 15 years’ experience developing community-based fitness programmes, she works with instructors across the UK to help older people improve strength, balance and confidence.

Keep fit classes improve strength, balance and overall wellbeing — especially when they’re structured, supportive and sustainable.

Staying active is one of the most important things we can do for long-term health. In my experience working with older adults across the UK, keep fit classes are one of the most effective ways to stay consistent.

They provide structure, professional guidance and the motivation of a group environment — all of which make exercise safer and more enjoyable than going it alone.

From high-energy bootcamps to specialist strength and balance sessions, there are options to suit different ages, abilities and goals.

Group keep fit classes increase motivation and consistency.

One of the biggest benefits I see in community classes is accountability. When people attend regularly, supported by a qualified instructor and a welcoming group, they stick with it.

That social element becomes just as important as the physical activity — particularly for older adults, where connection and confidence play a major role in long-term wellbeing.

Structured, instructor-led classes improve results and reduce injury risk.

A well-designed keep fit class should include flexibility, aerobic fitness, balance and strength — the four pillars of healthy ageing.

In specialist programmes such as Move it or Lose it, every session is structured to support these areas in a safe and progressive way. Exercises are adaptable and can be performed seated or standing, helping participants work at their own level while continuing to improve.

This structure is what helps people maintain independence and mobility over time.

Different types of keep fit classes suit different needs.

High-intensity bootcamps can boost cardiovascular fitness and strength quickly, but they may not suit everyone — particularly those with joint concerns or balance challenges.

Dance-based sessions improve coordination and stamina. Gym circuits provide variety. Boxing-style classes build endurance.

For those over 60, however, targeted strength and balance classes often deliver the most meaningful long-term benefits. Improving posture, stability and muscle strength significantly reduces falls risk and increases confidence in everyday life.

Specialist keep fit classes for older adults provide safe, adaptable exercise.

Over the years, I’ve seen how important accessibility is. Classes that avoid floor work and offer both seated and standing options remove barriers and build confidence.

Move it or Lose it classes are delivered in community halls, leisure centres and local venues across the UK. They are evidence-informed, inclusive and designed specifically for older adults.

Participants don’t just exercise — they build confidence, friendships and long-term habits.

Online keep fit classes provide flexibility without sacrificing quality.

Not everyone can attend in person every week. That’s why we developed the Move it or Lose it Online Club.

The Online Club offers:

• Live weekly keep fit classes

• Seated and standing options

• Catch-up access

• A growing on-demand library

Live sessions recreate the supportive atmosphere of a community class, while the on-demand options allow people to exercise at a time that suits them.

For those without local keep fit classes nearby — or who prefer exercising at home — this flexibility makes regular movement far more achievable.

There is also a free 30-day trial available, so people can experience the sessions before committing.

Choosing the right keep fit class supports long-term success.

When searching for “keep fit classes near me,” it’s important to consider your goals.

Are you looking to improve strength?

Enhance balance?

Reduce stiffness?

Increase stamina?

The best class is one that feels sustainable.

Consistency delivers results. Structured sessions that combine strength, balance, aerobic fitness and flexibility — and that can be adapted as you progress — tend to support lasting improvements in health and wellbeing.

Keep fit classes support physical, mental and social health.

Regular movement supports heart health, bone density, joint mobility and cognitive function. Just as importantly, group classes reduce isolation and boost mood.

In my experience, the most successful keep fit programmes are those that combine structure, safety and community.

The Bottom Line

Keep fit classes offer a versatile and enjoyable way to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you choose a lively local class or a flexible online session, the key is finding something structured, supportive and sustainable.

Because the right class doesn’t just help you get fit.

It helps you stay independent, confident and active for years to come.

About the Author

Julie Robinson

Founder & CEO, Move it or Lose it

Specialist in exercise for older adults

Developer of the FABS® (Flexibility, Aerobic, Balance, Strength) training framework

Advocate for healthy ageing through community-based physical activity