Former BBC Radio Nottingham newsreader & presenter Pip Watts, has hung up her headphones after 25 years in broadcasting and is now teaching “Move it or Lose it“ fitness classes for the over 60s across Notts.
But she’ll still be playing some great music in classes, which are designed to improve balance and strength, helping people live more independent lives.
Pip started her career aged 16 working at Birmingham’s Pebble Mill studios where she made Desmond Tutu a cuppa whilst he was waiting to be interviewed. She decided she wanted to be the one asking all the questions!
After working at Nottingham’s Central TV & in commercial radio she moved to BBC Radio Nottingham. Pip recalls interviewing many fascinating people – just like she’d dreamed of.
“Popstar Lulu was coming to the studios, so I researched her whole life, but we ended up talking about strange eating habits and hummus. You never knew where an interview would go! I also made some on air howlers – accidentally reporting that the footballer Alan Shearer had been sold for £1.50! And I missed my bus home once because Tony Hadley from Spandau Ballet wouldn’t stop talking.”
When the pandemic struck, Pip realised how many older people were becoming isolated with increasing health problems. She felt a career change was needed and is now qualified with “Move it or Lose it“ who deliver classes across the UK to thousands of people.
“They’re fun exercises designed to improve strength and balance, without getting down on the floor. It’s low impact, and you can stay seated or stand up. And with my radio background you can be assured of some fantastic tunes to take you back – and forwards! And the research stacks up – done regularly, these classes can help people turn the clock back by nearly 10 years”.
Classes available:
Farr Hall, All Hallows Church in Lady Bay on Wednesdays at 10am.
Clifton Community Centre, 14 Southchurch Drive, NG11 8AR on Thursdays at 10.30am.
Keyworth Village Hall Centenary Lounge on Friday at 10am.
For further information please see “Move it or lose it with Pip” on Facebook or email [email protected]
