From Two Chairs to 70+: Motown Chair Fitness Builds a Community Through Music, Movement and Family

From Two Chairs to 70+: Motown Chair Fitness Builds a Community Through Music, Movement and Family

Free weekly fitness class combines classic Motown music, exercise, nutrition education and fellowship to help residents move toward healthier lives.


DOLTON, Ill.  What began with only two participants has quickly become a community movement.

In just three months, the Motown Chair Fitness Class, led by Siddiqu “The Personal Trainer,” has grown from two participants to more than 70 people gathering each week for exercise, music, laughter and fellowship.

But participants will tell you it has become much more than a fitness class. It has become a family.

One moment perfectly captures the atmosphere. During an exercise, DJ E may suddenly turn off the music while Smokey Robinson & The Miracles’ “The Tears of a Clown” is playing. Instead of stopping, the entire room continues exercising while singing the song together.

For some participants, the weekly class has become one of the highlights of their week.

“People need more than a workout,” said Siddiqu. “They need somewhere they feel welcome, somewhere they can laugh, move, sing and connect with other people. When I look around that room and see 70-plus people smiling and exercising together, I know we are building something special.”

Keeping the program free is an important part of its mission. Removing the financial barrier gives more community members an opportunity to become physically active while building relationships with others.

Siddiqu also emphasizes that healthier living cannot stop when class ends. Participants receive meal plans and regular encouragement to make healthier food choices, drink more water and remain active throughout the week.

The rapid growth of Motown Chair Fitness demonstrates the power of combining familiar music with accessible exercise and genuine community.

Three months ago, there were two people.

Today, more than 70 chairs can be filled.

And every week, the Motown family continues to grow.

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