At Burford House, the team continually looks for practical and meaningful ways to support residents’ mobility, independence, and overall well-being. In late 2025, the home introduced a structured twelve-week indoor cycling project. Birinder, Activities Lead, designed the initiative to help residents improve lower body strength, build stamina, and feel more confident in everyday movement, all within a safe and supportive environment.
The project also complements existing physiotherapy and mobility support within the home. This ensures residents benefit from regular movement throughout the week rather than isolated exercise sessions.
A Simple Idea with Clear Goals
The initiative uses compact two foot pedal cycles that residents can use while seated in a chair or wheelchair. This approach removes the fear often linked to standing exercises and allows residents to stay in control of their movement at all times.
One pedal cycle was kindly donated, with a second purchased to allow more residents to take part. Sessions focus on strengthening leg and hip muscles, supporting joint movement, and encouraging gentle activity that fits naturally into daily routines.
Residents often use the pedal cycles during group activities, while watching television, or when spending time together. This flexibility helps exercise feel familiar and enjoyable rather than clinical.
As one resident shared, “I can feel my muscles. I feel good.”
Positive Progress at the Six Week Mark
Six-week interim results show encouraging progress across the group. Many residents steadily increased the length of time they spent cycling, with several doubling or tripling their original session times.
Residents spoke openly about their achievements and growing confidence. One commented, “I am pleased with myself,” while another said, “It is an achievement, especially after my morning physio.” Several residents also noticed improvements in joint movement, with one adding, “It is not just my legs. I can also feel my hip muscles, which is good for me.”
Supporting Residents at Risk of Falls
Loss of balance accounts for the majority of falls in older adults, which makes targeted strength and stamina work essential.
One resident in particular chose to take part in the sessions because he wanted to build strength in his legs and feel more confident in his everyday movement. At the time, changes in his mobility affected both his confidence and quality of life. Since joining the pedal cycling sessions, he has benefited greatly. He has gained improved strength and stability and has remained free from further incidents since November. While his needs have changed slightly in recent weeks, the positive difference this activity has made is clear for everyone to see.
Barry, aged ninety one, is also taking part in the project and has shown a clear reduction in the number of falls he experiences. Over the first six weeks, Barry increased his cycling time steadily and now approaches each session with enthusiasm. His enjoyment is clear, with feedback including, “I actually enjoy this,” and “I can do more.”
Team members have also observed improved mood, confidence, and self esteem. This has encouraged other residents to take part and created a positive culture around movement and activity.
Activities That Build Independence
Residents who regularly use the pedal cycles continue to walk with zimmer frames or wheeled walkers. This supports ongoing independence and helps residents maintain everyday mobility.
Several residents have also noticed improvements in daily movement. One resident shared, “I feel good after using it and find it easier to stand up from my armchair.” Another added, “I don’t feel stiff much. I did well this time.”
Others have set personal goals, which gives them motivation and a sense of achievement. One resident said, “I have increased the time,” while another proudly noted, “I reached my target.”
Evidence Led Activity That Supports Mobility
Research shows that gentle, seated cycling exercises can support muscle strength, joint flexibility, and overall mobility in older adults when carried out regularly. This type of low impact activity engages key leg muscles without placing unnecessary strain on the joints. As a result, it offers a safe and accessible form of exercise for many people living in residential care, particularly those who feel less confident with standing activities.
A Word from Birinder, Burford House Activities Lead
Birinder has personally supervised many of the sessions and has seen confidence grow week by week.
“I have witnessed remarkable progress. At first, the pedal cycles were unfamiliar and some residents felt unsure. Now residents ask me to bring the bike back so others can have a go. I see real joy, motivation, and pride during these sessions. Even when residents start slowly, they show that with encouragement and consistency, they can achieve their goals.”
Looking Ahead
Although the project is still ongoing, early outcomes are very positive. Residents are moving more often, feeling stronger, and approaching walking with greater confidence.
Burford House will continue to use the pedal cycles as part of daily life in the home. The long term aim is to support mobility, maintain independence, and reduce fall risk alongside other physical activities. This initiative reflects Burford House’s commitment to person centred care, where thoughtful ideas create meaningful improvements in everyday life.