Discover the Joy of Movement: Join Our Love to Move Sessions at St Mary's
We are delighted to announce that St Mary’s Church, Platt will be hosting weekly Love to Move sessions starting Tuesday 3rd June, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm in the Garden Room, and continuing every Tuesday thereafter. (Tonbridge and Malling Council has funded the first 8 sessions through their 50th Anniversary Community Grant Scheme so these sessions will be free. After that the PCC will explore how to take things forward with the great hope of being able to continue the sessions.)
Love to Move, developed by the British Gymnastics Foundation, is a nationally acclaimed programme that’s more than just exercise—it's a scientifically designed seated movement programme tailored to benefit the physical, emotional, and cognitive health of older adults, including those living with mild to advanced forms of dementia.
What makes Love to Move unique is its focus on increasing cognitive reserve—your brain’s ability to adapt, reorganise and find new ways of completing tasks as we age. This is achieved through a series of carefully choreographed seated exercises, set to music, that promote bilateral coordination—movements using both sides of the body simultaneously. These exercises aren’t just about keeping fit; they’re about keeping minds sharp.
Extensive research, including studies by Age UK, has shown that even one session a week can make a significant difference, with some participants showing improvements after just one or two classes. These benefits include enhanced memory, mood, and coordination, and for those living with dementia, the programme can slow the progression of symptoms, greatly improving quality of life.
The role of music in the programme cannot be overstated. Music has the power to stimulate memory and emotion, unlock forgotten memories, and enhance mood, helping to create a joyful, supportive environment for everyone involved.
Importantly, Love to Move is not your typical exercise class. Each movement serves a purpose, targeting different areas of the brain and body, all while participants remain comfortably seated. The sessions are inclusive, welcoming, and adapted to suit a wide range of abilities.
Backed by government funding and spreading rapidly across the UK, this is your chance to be part of something proven, powerful, and profoundly positive—right here in your community.
Come Along!
Whether you’re looking to support your own wellbeing or that of a loved one, Love to Move offers a warm, welcoming space to reconnect, move, and thrive. No previous experience needed—just come as you are!