Let’s get physical – Sidcup care home gets fit with the Green Goddess

A care home in Sidcup has taken part in a very special exercise class taught by 1980s fitness star, the Green Goddess.

Residents and team members at Care UK’s Smyth Lodge, on Frognal Avenue, donned their workout wear and neon accessories to take part in the bespoke virtual session with fitness guru Diana Moran, which forms 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 their activities, residents completed a series of low impact, tailored exercise routines suitable for those in later life and designed to improve flexibility and blood circulation. Not wanting to miss out on the fun, team members also got involved by dressing up in their best 80s inspired exercise outfits, much to the resident’s amusement. 

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. 

Tracey Cheeseman, Home Manager at Smyth Lodge said: “We had a fantastic time in our 80s gear taking part in The Green Goddesses’ official Care UK workout.

“Here at Smyth Lodge, we strive to ensure residents lead active and fulfilling lives. While regular activities at the home include gentle exercise classes and movement activities, we were keen to encourage residents to kickstart the new year by trying something new.

“Exercise is incredibly important for maintaining physical and mental health, especially in older people, whose mobility, balance, and strength naturally begins to decline with age. Enjoying physical exercise in a novel and exciting way can greatly increase resident involvement, leading to improved fitness levels and a more positive mood.

“Many residents remember the Green Goddess from their younger years, and seeing everyone dressed up really did put a smile on resident’s faces. We’ll certainly be taking part in this for weeks to come!”

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!”

Smyth Lodge has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The state-of-the-art care home, which opened in 2019, provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, and features a cinema, hair salon and activities room.

For more information about Smyth Lodge, please call Customer Relations Manager, Francois Erwee, on 0333 3053 474 or email francois.erwee@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/smyth-lodge.

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.