By ROBERT GIBSON

Last updated 21:47, Thursday, 31 July 2008

TWO fitness instructors from Prudhoe have joined forces to create a business aimed at bringing a healthy lifestyle to children in nurseries and schools in Tynedale.

End of term: Jill Newton and Nicola Oliver with youngsters at the Jack and Jill nursery in Prudhoe.

Jill Newton and Nicola Oliver, who both used to lead leisure centre classes, will be teaching energetic dance routines to children over three.

Energize Kids could see the youngsters grooving with their teddy bears or even pretending to be monkeys or pirates.

But its creators say, that while the children love it, there’s a lot to it than just having fun.

“It links in with the foundation stage schools curriculum,” said Jill. “And it will bring a lot of physical benefits by helping children to recognise the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the long-term rewards of healthy eating.

“We won’t go into too much depth, but if they start right with healthy eating and being active it can only help bring positive long-term effects.”

Until recently, both Jill and Nicola worked at Prudhoe’s Waterworld leisure centre, where they led dance and fitness classes. After leaving the centre, Nicola volunteered to help out at Jack and Jill’s nursery in Prudhoe, where she discovered how much the children enjoyed learning dance.

The pair soon realised they could make a successful business out of the classes, and have since been researching their market and what works best for different age groups.

At the end of last term, children at Jack and Jill’s took part in a few routines as part of their leaving assembly – and enjoyed every minute of it.

“I loved the star dance because I really like to jump,” said Bethany Cross.

“Being a monkey in the zoo was the best,” stated Danny Hollings.

Confirming the routines were having the desired physiological effect, Annalise Buchan declared: “I feel fit and healthy.”

The business will be launched officially in September, with the first booking already in place for St Matthew’s in Prudhoe.

Typically routines will be taught over a six week period, but Jill and Nicola say they are flexible and could offer taster sessions.

Anyone interested can contact Jill on 07878539237 or Nicola on 07882530174.