Keep kids moving this summer

Parents
18 July 2025
Image: Cartoon Joe Wicks stands with arms up, smiling, in front of a colourful background that says Activate with Joe Wicks’. He is joined by six bright, animated characters ready to exercise.
With the summer holidays in full swing, many parents are facing the same challenge: how to keep kids active and entertained without the constant battle over screen time. Enter Activate – a brand new, free animated physical activity series created by Joe Wicks in partnership with Studio AKA, the creative minds behind Hey Duggee.

Backed by the UK Government, Activate is designed to get children moving – not just over the holidays, but well into the school year.

A solution for summer inactivity 

We all know physical activity is vital for our kids’ health and wellbeing. Yet, over 53% of UK children aren’t meeting recommended daily activity levels. That’s where Activate steps in – bringing energy, fun and a burst of movement into your child’s day in just five minutes. 

Whether you’re at home, visiting grandparents or looking for something to break up the afternoon slump, each short episode offers a screen-time win: engaging, easy-to-follow exercises with music and characters that kids actually want to watch – and move along with. 

Joe Wicks reimagined (and he’s got company!) 

Five years after uniting families across the country with PE with Joe, Wicks returns in a new animated form, joined by a vibrant gang known as the Activators. Each character has their own personality and message, making the workouts feel inclusive and relatable for every child: 

  • Yellow brings unstoppable energy 
  • Pink champions fearless inclusivity 
  • Blue reminds us to stay hydrated 
  • Green inspires with football skills 
  • Turquoise kicks off the party with fun vibes 

Set to a soundtrack powered by Universal Music UK, each workout features well-known, upbeat songs that appeal to both kids and parents, making Activate a shared experience the whole family can enjoy. 

Easy to fit into busy days 

Each episode is around five minutes long, just enough time to get hearts pumping and minds focused. Parents can pop one on during a snack break, before a family walk or as part of the morning routine. Teachers and summer club leaders can easily slot them into the day to lift energy levels and boost concentration. 

Start today!

The first episode of Activate launched on 15 July on The Body Coach’s Youtube channel with new episodes released every week throughout the summer holidays. All completely free to access, with no equipment or setup required – just a bit of space and a willingness to get moving. 

So, this summer, hit play, jump in and get moving with Joe and the Activators!