Mr Motivator and wife join forces to host live workout at Austin Heath

TV fitness star, Mr Motivator, hosted a live ‘socially distanced’ workout for residents at Inspired Villages’ Austin Heath later living community, in Warwick.

To celebrate National Fitness Day on Wednesday 23 September, Mr Motivator  (aka Derrick Evans) and his wife, Sandra, hosted a 30 minute live workout at the village, with residents and colleagues also getting involved.

National Fitness Day is the UK’s largest physical activity celebration and is a chance to highlight the role physical activity plays across the UK, helping to raise awareness of its importance in helping the nation lead healthier and active lifestyles. Celebrating the day, as well as the wider Great British Week of Sport taking place from 19th September – 27th September, was very important to Inspired Villages as helping residents live healthier, independent lives for longer is central to its ethos.

The event at Austin Heath was live streamed to Inspired Villages’ Virtual Village Centre on Facebook for over 65s across the nation to join in from the comfort of their own homes.

The workout focused on the importance of keeping mentally and physically fit in later life, as well as staying active throughout social isolation and the winter months.

Mr Motivator’s wife (Sandra), also got involved with the workout by demonstrating alternative movements for those who prefer to stay seated.

Research has repeatedly shown that exercise in older adults is linked with lower disease risk, reduced risk of falls, and better overall health. It is also shown to improve mental health, wellbeing and cognitive function, alongside improved bone density and longer life.*

Regardless of age, the NHS outlines everyone should try to be physically active daily, do activities that improve strength, flexibility and balance at least two days a week, get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity a week, and reduce time spent sitting or lying down.

Jamie Bunce, CEO of Inspired Villages, comments: “At Inspired Villages our philosophy is centred around looking after residents’ physical, social and mental health  so we were keen to support National Fitness Day.

“Regardless of age or ability, we recognise that keeping active is important for supporting both mental and physical wellbeing, which is why we have dedicated ‘Wellness Navigators’ at each Inspired village.

“Mr Motivator is a shining example of how to keep fit no matter your age and his supportive, positive and encouraging outlook on exercise is why we were so pleased to welcome him to Austin Heath and join our residents for a fun, socially distanced workout.”

Austin Heath offers contemporary living just a short distance from Warwick’s famous castle and Leamington Spa’s shops and restaurants. Austin Heath features 118 homes, including; village centre apartments, assisted living, panorama and penthouses. Facilities include, Eric’s café, The Dining Room Restaurant, vitality pool, steam and sauna room, hair and beauty salon, gym, craft room and library/cinema room.

To find out more about Austin Heath please visit: inspiredvillages.co.uk/village/austin-heath

*Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/health_and_wellbeing/age-exercise-ability-fitness-health-running-swimming-cycling-a9665671.html