Residents of a care home in Nailsworth are taking part in a new, Japanese-inspired exercise programme.

A 10 Today group has been set up at Hanover Gardens. The exercise programme is inspired by Radio Taiso in Japan, a daily exercise broadcast that keeps the world’s oldest population active.

It involves a series of simple 10-minute workouts that can be done almost anywhere with the free broadcasts available online.

Stroud MP David Drew recently took part in a session, completing exercises such as ‘kick the ball’, ‘push up to the moon’ and ‘circle the sky.’

He said: “It was great to spend time exercising together. It’s so important that older people stay fit and these exercises were a good way of doing that.”

Across England, hundreds of ‘10 Today Champions’ are being trained to lead sessions.

Stella Dean, manager at Hanover Gardens and a trained 10 Today champion, said: “The exercises are easy, fun and accessible, and it’s a great opportunity for us all to spend together whilst staying active.

"I’m incredibly proud to be a 10 Today champion, and I know it will make a huge difference to the people who live with us.

"Our sessions have been hugely successful already and I’d encourage anyone who can to try 10 Today.”

Jane Ashcroft CBE, chief executive of Anchor Hanover who run the care home, said: “Inactivity in later life is an urgent issue that cannot be overlooked any longer.

"Everyone should have a chance to live life to the full, regardless of age. It’s imperative that our older generations are able to exercise in a way that suits their needs, to improve their wellbeing and reduce strain on the NHS, which is a lifeline for so many.

"We’re proud of our customers and colleagues at Hanover Gardens and across Anchor Hanover who are leading the way and embracing the significant benefits of 10 Today.”

For more information, visit: anchorhanover.org.uk/10today.