Music
Instructors may opt to use pre-formatted music, appropriate for group exercise. Teaching to a 32-count phrase with a consistent beat and tempo will provide a structured pace and a motivational lift to your class. Consider using recognizable music participants can sing to for even more class interaction.
If using this type of music, we’d recommend a beat per minute (BPM) of 120-124 or slower – this will depend on your audience.
We’ve partnered with Yes! Fitness Music to provide this music and created a free album just for you that is available through the Yes!GO Music app. In addition, as a SilverSneakers instructor you can receive a discount on all Yes! Fitness music.
- Access your free playlist here: www.getyesgo.com/silvermix
- Redeem your discount on all other great music available from Yes! Fitness Music here: www.getyesgo.com/silver
SilverSneakers Well-Balanced YESGO Playlist Coming Soon
Pre-Class Communication
Set expectations before class starts to empower participants and reinforce safety:
- “You may sit or stand today—both options are effective.”
- “Work at your own pace and listen to your body.”
- “If something doesn’t feel right, modify or take a break.”
- “Hydrate when needed—I’ll remind you during class.”
These messages build trust and help participants feel in control of their experience.
Communication and Demonstration
Clear communication and strong demonstration are essential in a setting where many participants may have hearing loss, vision impairments, or cognitive processing delays. Even small breakdowns in clarity can lead to confusion, hesitation, or increased risk.
- Use concise verbal cues paired with precise visual demonstration.
- Speak slowly and clearly.
- Emphasize safety, form, and confidence.
- Always show the correct movement and avoid demonstrating incorrect form.
- Keep cues simple, positive, and actionable.
- ❌ “Don’t lock your knees.” → ✅ “Keep a soft bend in your knees.”
- Face the class when possible, using mirror-image cueing for clarity.
Smooth Transitions: Entry → Action → Exit
Create seamless transitions between movements using the EAE method:
- Entry – Where does the move start? How do we get into position?
- Action – What’s the movement? What muscles are working?
- Exit – How do we end it, and what comes next?
Tip: The exit point of one exercise should naturally lead into the entry point of the next, maintaining flow and minimizing confusion.
Intensity Variations
Every class should accommodate a wide range of abilities, allowing participants to move at their own pace, with appropriate options that reduce the risk of injury. These key adaptation strategies help you keep everyone safe, while still challenging those who are ready for more.
Use regressions and progressions to scale the challenge:
- Keep participants safe while offering opportunities for growth.
- Allow use of handheld weights or one’s own body weight.
Modify these variables:
- Range of motion: Smaller = less intense; Bigger = more challenging.
- Lever length: Bent arms = easier; straight arms = harder (e.g., lateral raise).
- Stability: Seated → supported standing → unsupported standing.
- Balance challenges: Change stance, close eyes, or add arm movement.
Standing and seated options
- All exercises should be adaptable to seated or supported standing positions.
- No floor work in this class format.
- Squat variations: sit-to-stand or supported squats behind chair.
Progressive balance challenges
- Movements in multiple planes: forward, lateral, diagonal.
- Static and dynamic balance demands.
- Elements of gait, reaction, and coordination.
In Summary
The SilverSneakers® Well-Balanced classes are most effective when they are structured, flexible, and clearly delivered. By combining smart adaptations, progressive challenges, clear demonstrations, and supportive communication, you can create an experience that is not only safe, but motivating and empowering.
In the next lesson, we’ll explore how to monitor and evaluate success, including how to track participant progress, and gather feedback.