Hand Assisted Sit To Stand
- Moderate
- Uses standing
- Legs
- Hips
- Knees
Animation coming soon.
Follow the steps below, or watch one of the videos listed further down.
What it is
Stand up fully with your hands pushing on your thighs, then sit back down. Builds the leg strength for getting out of chairs and cars.
How to do it
- Use a sturdy chair against a wall. Sit near the front, feet flat and slightly back.
- Place your hands on your thighs.
- Lean forward and push through your feet and hands to stand up tall.
- Reach back for the seat and lower yourself slowly.
Key tip: Stand all the way up and pause before you sit. Take a breath at the top.
Who should skip it, and why
- You cannot stand up without help, or you feel dizzy or light-headed when you stand. Standing up brings a real risk of a fall. Use the seated version, or only do this with someone beside you.
- Your knee is hot, swollen or was recently injured. A flared joint needs rest and a check-up first. Moving through it can make it worse.
Easier and harder versions
- Easier
- Use the armrests, or do Partial Sit To Stand.
- Harder
- Cross your arms over your chest (Stand & Sit).
How much
In our videos each move runs for about 40 seconds with 20 seconds of rest. Start with less if you need to. Comfortable effort is the goal, not exhaustion.
Stop straight away and get help if you feel:
- chest pain, pressure or tightness
- dizziness, light-headedness or faintness
- breathlessness that doesn't settle when you rest
- sharp or joint pain, or pain that gets worse as you go
- numbness, tingling, or a sudden severe headache
This is general exercise information, not medical advice. If you have a health condition, or you've had a fall, injury or surgery recently, check with your doctor or physiotherapist first.