Sweatbands at the ready – Sutton Coldfield care homes take unusual approach to getting fit

Care homes in Sutton Coldfield have been taking part in unusual types of exercise to kick start the new year. 

Residents at Mercia Grange, on Lichfield Road, and Gracewell of Sutton Coldfield, now part of the Care UK family, on Jockey Road, have taken part in a 1980s-inpired workouts as part of Care UK’s ‘Let’s Get Physical’ initiative – which aims to encourage residents to get up and active by trying something new.

The session saw residents and team members at Mercia Grange don colourful sweatbands as part of a seated workout to the beat of classic 80s songs. 

Meanwhile, at Gracewell of Sutton Coldfield, residents took part in a bespoke virtual session with Diana Moran, also known as the Green Goddess. Everyone dressed in green outfits as a nod to the 80s fitness guru’s trademark green leotard for a special seated exercise session.

Antony Gatley, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, said: “We had a fantastic time taking part in our special 1980s-inspired workout here at Mercia Grange. 

“We are constantly looking for new and exciting ways to encourage residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, which is why a fun themed workout seemed like the perfect activity.

“Gentle exercise can do wonders for older people by reducing the risks of heart disease. Coupled with the benefits of music, which can be a wonderful tool to encourage reminiscence, we felt we’d found the perfect activity – and we loved hearing some of our favourite tunes from 1980s while breaking a sweat!”

Sarah Diamond, General Manager at Gracewell of Sutton Coldfield, added: “Many residents remember the Green Goddess from their younger years, and seeing everyone dressed up really did put a smile on resident’s faces.”

As part of the initiative, Care UK has also teamed up with popular 80s fitness star, the Green Goddess, to create a series of bespoke exercise videos for its homes to enjoy. Residents and team members across the country are encouraged to don their best Lycra and neon accessories and take part in the fun new workouts. 

 

Diana Moran, the Green Goddess, said: “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!”

Mercia Grange is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia, and short-term respite care. The three-storey care home, which features 67 ensuite bedrooms, has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Gracewell of Sutton Coldfield, incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The building has been configured to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.

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.