Tae Kwon- Do! Care home residents take unusual approach to getting fit this January

A care home in Tettenhall has been taking part in an unusual type of exercise to start the new year. 

Residents at Foxland Grange on Wergs Road have kickstarted the new year quite literally with a series of karate lessons 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.

 

As part of the sessions, residents have learned about the history of Tae Kwon Do, alongside tailored stretching and movement techniques, designed to improve flexibility and mobility in older adults. 

Residents also had the opportunity to get involved in a sparring workshop, which was led by Liz Walker, a carer at Foxland Grange, who, alongside her husband Paul, has a black belt in the sport. 

Commenting on the activity, resident Josie said: “It was so exhilarating and exciting to do something different and to see a member of the team so passionate about working in a care environment and helping others build strength and confidence through the amazing martial arts.”

Liz Walker, who led the workshop, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed teaching the residents the basics of Tae Kwon Do. Anyone can do anything if they put their mind to it!”

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

Su Edmonds, General Manager at Foxland Grange, said: “We had a fantastic time taking part in our Tae Kwon Do workshop here at Foxland Grange.  

“We are constantly looking for new and exciting ways to encourage residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, which is why karate seemed like the perfect activity. Taking part in new and exciting forms of exercise, such as our karate themed exercises presents residents with a new challenge. This can lead to greater self-confidence, which encourages older people to embrace their later years with gusto, retain their independence, and lead fulfilling lives.

“Judging by the smiles on everyone’s faces, Tae Kwon Do was a hit – we are looking forward to continuing the sessions throughout 2022. 

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!”

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

For more information on Foxland Grange, please call Director of Community Relations, Jazz Lalli, on 01902 275 608 or email jazz.lalli@careuk.com.

For more general information, please go to careuk.com/foxland-grange.

For general information about Care UK, please visit: careuk.com.

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.