Key Summary
- Joe Wicks and the government launch Activate to get kids moving with fun, animated workouts
- The series supports the NHS 10 Year Health Plan, targeting obesity and promoting healthy habits
- It aims to boost fitness, confidence, and mental wellbeing among children
Fitness coach John Wicks MBE along with the government has launched a new animated series titled ‘Activate’ promoting improved physical activities in children during the summers.
The series features 5-minute episodes and encourages children to enjoy short bursts of movement that easily fit into their day and can be transformational for their physical and mental health.
It is co-produced by BAFTA-winning studio AKA, who created Hey Duggee, and the music is from Universal Music UK.
The initial release took place at Ripple Primary School in Barking, East London along with the interaction of Joe Wicks and health secretary Wes Streeting with the teachers and parents.
Studio AKA’s ‘Activate’ series brings animated Joe Wicks and fun characters to life, making movement playful, personal, and inclusive for all kids.
In his first animated role, Joe Wicks leads workouts with easy exercises like squats and burpees to keep kids active and engaged.
It is designed for both holidays and school time, promoting fitness, confidence, and lifelong healthy habits.
‘Activate’ will receive more funding from the government to produce 10 more episodes.
The series is supported by the NHS 10 Year Health Plan which aims to transform healthcare from treatment to precaution.
Childhood obesity is a serious disorder highlighted in this year’s 10 Year Plan, which has doubled since the 1990s.
Studies prove that 1 in 5 children are obese by the end of primary school, and in deprived regions the ratio is higher - 1 in 3 children.
The 10-Year Health Plan includes partnerships with food companies, junk food ad restrictions, and changes to the soft drinks levy.
It promotes healthier eating and more active lifestyles. The goal is to prevent chronic diseases and reduce the NHS’s £11.4 billion obesity cost.
“Activate is designed to make movement fun and inclusive for every child, with short, high-energy workouts that fit into everyday life. These can be enjoyed in the living room, the garden, in the classroom, or anywhere else!” said Joe Wicks.
“As a dad, I know how important it is to make movement something kids enjoy, not something they have to do. That’s exactly what Activate is all about so I hope it can be a real support for busy families, this summer and beyond,” he added.
