A student from Sedgley is offering free exercise classes to care homes and nursing homes to keep the elderly mobile.

Joab Wheatley, who is studying Sports and Exercise Studies at Newman University, set up his own brand ‘Generation Fitness’ in June last year.

The 20-year-old started teaching exercise classes at different care homes across Stourbridge and Dudley but was forced to stop due to the COVID-19 lockdowns.

However, Castle Meadows Nursing Home in Dudley offered him the position of activities coordinator so has been working with their residents through the lockdown.

Residents at Cedars Residential Home in Stourbrige enjoying one of Joab's classes last year.

Joab said: “When I first started my degree, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, I was going down the PE teacher route as I have always been really sporty. Then my mum said how good I am with my grandma, so I thought I would contact a few homes to see if they would be interested in some exercise classes. Since then, the response has been so positive which I think is mainly to do with me being the younger generation.

“I had my second dose of the vaccine last Thursday (March 25) but I know a lot of homes are at different stages with their vaccination schemes and I just cannot wait to go to as many homes as possible. I am looking to properly start going back out in May time. I offer a free 45-minute class and the homes are under no obligation to take it forward but if they do that’s even better news for me!”

When Joab graduates from university in May he is hoping to build his business, creating a full-time career.

He said: “It is so important in care homes that exercise is being given to residents as they are sitting there all day, within their own minds. We need to make sure they are okay and mobile. It is not just about the exercise, its about them having fun.”

Joab is also climbing Mount Snowdown in June this year to raise funds for Dementia UK, which is a cause close to his heart.

He added: “I have built numerous relationships with dementia residents and I see the importance for people to get a good level of care. If we can come together and raise money for this charity, they will then be able to send out more dementia nurse specialists to support these suffering families. “

To donate to Joab’s charity climb, visit his JustGiving page.