Business Details
37 Years
experience
Functional Fitness for All Ages & Abilities
Sit and Be Fit is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve functional fitness and independence through accessible, media-based programming. Founded over 30 years ago, our mission has been to help people improve their quality of life by providing safe, effective workouts led by TV host Mary Ann Wilson, RN, and her daughter, Gretchen. Our programs combine decades of nursing expertise with modern fitness techniques, focusing on strength, balance, brain health, and mobility. Recognized with 31 national awards, we collaborate with doctors, physical therapists, and specialists to deliver evidence-based content that addresses chronic conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and Parkinson's.Our team's commitment to continuous innovation ensures our workouts remain relevant and beneficial for diverse audiences, including seniors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Through free public television distribution and streaming services, we strive to make wellness accessible to communities nationwide while maintaining the highest standards of safety and inclusivity.
Services
Chair Exercise DVDs
Streaming Workouts
Exercise Accessories
Brain Fitness Programs
Chronic Condition Workouts
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- Led by registered nurse Mary Ann Wilson with 32+ years of public television experience
- 31 national awards for excellence in health and wellness programming
- Collaborates with medical professionals to develop condition-specific workout programs
- Offers accessible solutions for seniors and individuals with chronic conditions
- Provides both streamed and physical media formats for flexible learning
What people say
Life-changing workouts
Medical professional endorsement
Accessible for all abilities
Improves mobility
Doctor-recommended
Services
Chair Exercise DVDs
These specialized DVDs feature low-impact, seated exercises designed for seniors and individuals with mobility limitations. Programs target strength, balance, and flexibility through medically approved routines that can be performed safely at home. Each DVD addresses specific conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, or Parkinson's while incorporating evidence-based practices developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
Streaming Club
This on-demand platform offers 24/7 access to a comprehensive library of workouts through any internet-connected device. The service includes structured programs for chronic condition management, brain fitness, and functional mobility, with features allowing users to track progress and follow personalized workout schedules. Content updates regularly based on medical research and user feedback.
Chronic Condition Workouts
Tailored exercise regimens address specific health challenges including COPD, arthritis, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. Developed with medical specialists, these programs focus on symptom management through gentle movements that improve circulation, joint mobility, and overall quality of life while maintaining strict safety standards for vulnerable populations.
Brain Fitness Programs
Interactive workouts integrate physical movement with cognitive challenges to enhance neural connectivity and prevent cognitive decline. These evidence-based routines combine rhythmic exercise with coordination tasks and music therapy techniques to improve mental acuity, memory function, and emotional well-being for older adults.
Exercise Accessories
Specifically designed equipment enhances workout effectiveness through resistance training and mobility improvement. Products include therapeutic exercise bands, stability balls, and resistance towels that support proper form while building strength. All accessories align with program requirements and safety guidelines for senior users.
People
Mary Ann Wilson
Founder & TV Host
Registered nurse with 32+ years experience creating medically sound fitness programs for seniors. Inducted into National Fitness Hall of Fame in 2017 for pioneering accessible exercise programs that have aired on public television nationwide.
Gretchen
Co-Instructor
Daughter of Mary Ann Wilson who demonstrates adapted versions of standing exercises for seated participants. Brings contemporary fitness expertise to complement traditional nursing approaches while maintaining program accessibility standards.
Questions
Is this program suitable for beginners?
Yes, all workouts adapt to different fitness levels with options for seated participants. No prior experience needed.
Can I follow along without special equipment?
Most routines use household items. Optional accessories available for enhanced workouts.
How often should I exercise?
Daily 10-20 minute sessions recommended. Programs let you progress at your own pace.
Are programs effective for chronic conditions?
Specifically designed with medical advisors to address mobility issues from osteoporosis, Parkinson's, diabetes, and arthritis.
What formats do you offer?
DVDs, streaming service, and public television broadcasts available nationwide.
Is medical clearance needed?
Always consult your physician before starting new exercise programs, especially with pre-existing conditions.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Snookie G.
Jul 29, 2017
Report
My name is Michelle and SABF has changed my life. I have had 12 back surgeries and have to deal with chronic pain everyday. I was a Respiratory Therapist and worked until surgery number six and became disabled in 2008. In October of 2015 my diabetes was so out of control I had to be on oral and injectable agents. I was weak, tired, overweight and not enjoying my life very much. I made the much needed dietary changes but, honestly, did not feel any better. I needed to exercise but, after surgery number six, my left leg was paralyzed and after number 10 my right leg was greatly weakened. Traditional
