Body Harmony classes have been running since 2005. They began when it was felt that little was available for a certain segment of the community. Keith Nicholas, an experienced and fully qualified martial artist, along with the local residents’ association, decided to start a holistic fitness class with its roots in traditional martial arts. The very first session took place at the Sir Philip Game Centre in Morland Avenue.

Almost immediately, the class grew in popularity within the local community, attracting interest from other community groups as well. However, due to circumstances beyond our control, the venue was no longer available and the sessions had to stop for a short while.

Fortunately, Ashburton Library invited us to continue the classes there. Within six months, as word spread, Selsdon and New Addington Libraries also requested sessions. Once again, attendance increased rapidly and limitations had to be introduced due to demand.

Then COVID struck, and all library classes had to cease. Despite this, we were still able to continue running sessions in the park, making full use of the open space. As restrictions eased and life began returning to normal, we secured a space at Ashburton Hall, and the rest is history. Changes within social services later led to library venues reducing the programmes they offered, but thankfully, Ashburton Hall welcomed us and remains our base today.

So, what makes Body Harmony unique?

The exercises are specifically designed to support older people and those with limited mobility. Although much of the work is chair-based, floor and mat exercises are also included. We regularly use balls, stretch bands, weights, and other equipment. Traditional training tools such as the Jo (short staff), Bokken (wooden sword), Sensu (Tai Chi fan), and Tanbo (baton) are also introduced. Breathing and posture are carefully corrected, and Shiatsu is provided free of charge.

Body Harmony welcomes everyone to work within their own capabilities, with the emphasis on fun, enjoyment, and gentle improvement in a safe and comfortable environment. On Saturdays, a more formal session is offered for those who wish to follow a more traditional path and experience the deeper aspects of the practice.

The main benefits:

• Improves breathing capacity and helps encourage slower, deeper, calmer breathing patterns

• Supports better posture by gently strengthening core and back muscles

• Helps maintain joint mobility and flexibility without excessive strain

• Improves balance and coordination, which may reduce the risk of falls

• Builds and maintains muscle strength needed for everyday activities

• Encourages safer movement and greater physical independence

• Helps reduce stiffness and discomfort caused by inactivity or aging

• Supports circulation and healthy blood flow throughout the body

• Can ease mild aches associated with arthritis and joint conditions

• Helps maintain bone and muscle health in later life

• Encourages body awareness and understanding of personal movement limits

• Improves confidence in moving, standing, walking, or transferring safely

• Can help reduce the fear of falling through gradual balance practice

• Supports relaxation and stress reduction through gentle movement and breathing

• May improve sleep quality and promote deeper rest

• Helps lift mood and reduce feelings of isolation or low motivation

• Encourages mental focus, mindfulness, and emotional well-being

• Provides opportunities for social connection when done in groups

• Can support recovery and mobility after illness, surgery, or long periods of inactivity

• Helps manage symptoms linked to conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke recovery, and reduced mobility

• May help support heart health through safe, low-impact physical activity

• Encourages regular movement habits that contribute to overall health and quality of life

• Promotes dignity, self-confidence, and a sense of achievement through achievable activity goals

Our sessions are primarily chair-based for those with limited mobility, with free-standing and mat-based options also available. Activities include gentle exercises using free weights, stretch bands, balls, and other creative equipment to support strength, balance, flexibility, and well-being. Relaxation, breathing, and meditation exercises are encouraged throughout.

For those with special interests, fans, batons, and short staffs are available, usually offered free on Saturdays. Shiatsu is also available on request, with simple techniques demonstrated regularly during sessions. We finish each class with a friendly cool-down over tea and biscuits. Disabled access and on-site parking are available for convenience.

Based on traditional martial arts including Aikido, Judo, and Jujutsu, sessions may also include gentle, practical self-defence techniques tailored to individual needs, abilities, and personal requirements. 

Classes are informal, friendly, and supportive, creating a relaxed and happy environment for everyone. Men and women of all ages, abilities, and levels of experience are warmly welcome. 

The people who attend are just ordinary individuals from all walks of life. Most are retired, and some have mobility and other health issues. No prior experience is required - just the desire and enthusiasm to make that first step. Fitness is also not important. Although chair-based, mat and balance programs are normal. Loose clothing and proper footwear are advised. There is no formal application or annual membership, so "pay as you go"! There is disabled access and on-site free car parking. Free tea and biscuits are provided after each practice session; however, there is an on-site cafe with a warm, friendly staff. When requested, Shiatsu is available and is absolutely free. Other community services are available, and many meet socially as new friendships are formed. Not surprisingly, everyone is supportive and looks out for each other.