Let’s get physical – Edinburgh care homes get fit with the Green Goddess

Two care homes in Edinburgh have been getting active to kickstart the new year with the help of a very special guest.

Residents and team members at Care UK’s Murrayside, on South Beechwood, took part in a bespoke virtual session with fitness guru Diana Moran, forming part of Care UK’s ‘Let’s Get Physical’ initiative. 

Diana, known as the Green Goddess, is best known for hosting 'wake up and shape up' on breakfast television while wearing her trademark green leotard in the 1980s. 

As part of the initiative, residents at Cairdean House, in Colinton, dug out their weights and exercise balls for an afternoon of fun aerobics and seated strength training – where there was laughter all around.

The ‘Let’s Get Physical’ initiative sees Care UK homes across the country encourage residents to get active by trying something new and exciting – whether that be a fitness class with the Green Goddess, a seated ballet class, disco yoga or even ice skating. 

Gillian Goodall, Home Manager at Cairdean House, said: “We’ve had great fun discovering new ways to get up and active this January. 

“Keeping fit is important for everyone, but exercise has many additional benefits for older people, from reducing the risk of falls to increasing wellbeing and confidence. Fun, group activities, like these workouts, can also prompt conversation and encourage new friendships to form between residents.

 

“Judging by the smiles on everyone’s faces, seated aerobics and strength training is going to become a regular sight at Cairdean House!”

Diana Moran, the Green Goddess, added: “I am delighted to support Care UK to encourage residents across the country to get active by trying something new. 

“Regardless of age, keeping active is what keeps us young. Whether it’s walking a little further on your everyday stroll, or exercising a little longer, every day brings a new possibility. Even for those less mobile, chair-based exercises can be just as beneficial. Nothing should get in the way of you being the best version of you!”

Murrayside and Cairdean House have been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The homes provide full-time residential, residential dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite.

To find out more about Care UK’s homes in Edinburgh, visit careuk.com/care-homes/edinburgh.

To find out more about Care UK’s partnership with the Green Goddess, and for more top tips on how you and your loved ones can get involved at home, visit careuk.com/lets-get-physical.