Frome-based theatre company commissioned for MS Society-funded research project

Frome-based theatre company Rare Species have won a prestigious commission to film adapted versions of their comedy fitness programme “Mojo Moves” for people with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) 

The pair were spotted by Dr Julie Latchem-Hastings as they ran a free session on the bandstand in Frome’s Victoria park. 

Dr Latchem-Hastings is the study manager of LEAP-MS – lifestyle exercise and activity package for people with MS – a three-year study hosted at the centre for trials research at Cardiff University for the MS Society.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.  LEAP-MS is about supporting people with MS to be as active as possible and particularly aims to help people with progressive MS who have higher levels of disability.  

Working with people with MS, the LEAP-MS team have produced an online tool packed full of activity information and ideas.  The tool will be used by people with MS alongside support from physiotherapists.

The LEAP-MS team found that people with MS often considered their exercise options to be limited and often boring.  

Dr Latchem-Hastings immediately saw the potential of Mojo Moves saying, “as a physiotherapist, I was very impressed with how clever the routines are. Underneath all the fun there was so much technical expertise going on.”

Mojo Moves is a unique fitness programme in that it combines comedy theatre with a proper aerobic workout. 

The classes, hosted by larger-than-life characters Cheryl Sprinkler and Tony Dimonté (aka Ginny Adams and Nelly Fowler), have been running for just over a year in Frome, where the community have really taken Cheryl and Tony into their hearts.

Their tagline is “Reclaim your mojo back from the universe” and is as much about instilling positive mental health as physical fitness and has been life-changing for many regular participants.

Ginny said, “When I came up with the idea, I never envisaged that so many people would love it so much. 

“As well as running regular classes we have been invited to schools, festivals, parties and charity events to get people active through aerobic dancing.

“Adults and children alike join in with gusto and don’t even realise they are exercising.

“I am honoured to have been asked to adapt the routines to seated versions so that a new group of people can enjoy what we do.”

The films are not going to be available for the general public but will be tested countrywide, initially by 21 people with progressive MS (and their friends and families) for research purposes but if they are a success, they could become more widely accessible.

“Who knows, perhaps in 2020 we’ll see the release of a Mojo Moves fitness DVD,” said Nelly.

For more information and class times please visit mojomoves.co.uk