When are the sessions?
I run regular seated and low impact dance sessions that are open to all and would love you to join us. If you are coming for the first time please call Sam on 07887 743054:
Rhymes Pavilion, Coalpit Road, Batheaston, BA1 7NW
Tues 10th November, 2pm to 3pm and Thu 19th November, 2pm to 3pm.
Free taster sessions, kindly supported by the Parish Council and BANES, further dates to follow. Seated dancing with some low impact standing options, accessible for all ranges of movement.
Southdown Methodist Church The Hollow, Bath, BA2 1NJ
Monthly on the 1st Thursday of every month 11am to 12 noon.
Seated sessions are part of a lunch club, funded by the church, so are free.
St Johns Combe Park, Royston Tucker Room, Bath, BA1 3NF
There is no obligation to stay for lunch, but it's delicious and only £5 for 2 courses!
Weekly on Wednesdays 2pm to 3pm.
Seated sessions are £4 including a free drink. To book your place contact St Johns at goodliving.enquiries@stjohnsbath.org.uk or call 01225 486401.
The Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2 UH
Monthly 11am to 12.30pm on the following Mondays:
19 October 2026
23 November 2026
7 December 2026
18 January 2027
15 February 2027
15 March 2027
12 April 2027
10 May 2027
21 June 2027
16 Aug 2027
13 Sept 2027
11 Oct 2027
8 Nov 2027
6 Dec 2027
Seated dancing with some low impact standing options. Open to all, specifically designed to be dementia friendly for people living with dementia and their careers. Plenty of time for chat over a free drink at the end of the session. Sessions are currently free as they are funded by Impact Alliance. From Nov 2026 we will be asking for a suggested minimum donation of £4 per person to cover costs.
What are the sessions like?
It's all about fun movement to help keep you active. We start with a gentle warm up, slowly build up the intensity, working the joints, muscles and heart in an effective, but safe way, reducing the risk of injury. Sessions end with a cool down and a stretch to reduce stiffness. This is not a competitive class, it’s friendly and informal.
Are your sessions suitable for anyone?
Anyone is welcome and the dancing is designed to be as accessible as possible. You don't need to be a specific age to join in, so if you feel this style of session is for you we'd love you to come along. You can read more about the reasons people choose to come to this type of class here. As you can see from the photo and video above a wide range of people enjoy this type of dancing.
Before you join a session let me know about any health issues, so I can make sure it's safe for you to take part. I can suggest different movement options for you when we dance, helping you avoid moves that may be painful or exacerbate any existing conditions. If you are recovering from injury, have had a recent operation or have a heart condition I would encourage you to talk to your doctor before taking part.
I’m not sure I can dance, does that matter?
Not at all. Sessions are about enjoying moving to music not perfect dancing. As long as you are moving safely and having fun that’s all that matters.
What's different about your sessions?
Most people who come love music and want to dance but find it more comfortable to do so sitting down or in a low impact way. This can be for a range of reasons, such as, recovering from injury, loss of balance or avoiding weight bearing because of a specific health condition, such as arthritis. You can read more about the benefits of this kind of exercise here.
People say they like the welcoming atmosphere, the chance to meet new people and enjoy reminiscing about the music we dance to.
What sort of music do we dance to?
I encourage everyone to let me know what music they enjoy. Most songs we use are chosen by the group and include a broad range of styles from Motown, to disco, 80s pop and some old classic from the 50s and rock and roll eras.
What should I wear?
Something comfortable and flat shoes. You do not need any specialist wear.
Are your sessions dementia friendly?
Yes, I have 10 year's experience working with people living with dementia and have also been a carer for someone living with dementia.