The Body Coach star impresses students

Fitness coach, media personality and campaigner, Joe Wicks, talked to students at Barnsley College about his extensive career in fitness and wellbeing.

As an inspirational speaker, Joe spoke virtually to students about nutrition, balancing pressures and maintaining fitness and motivation throughout the academic year.

The session started with Joe leading students through a series of simple bodyweight exercises including squats, lunges, jumping jacks and light cardio intervals designed to boost energy and mood. He reminded students that movement does not need special equipment or long sessions to make a difference.

A question-and-answer session followed, with students asking about nutrition on a budget, staying active alongside studies, and how to stay motivated when routines slip. Joe offered practical advice on quick meal planning, creating weekly habits, the importance of sleep, digital balance and finding supportive peer networks.

Ellisha Jones, a Level 3 Sport and Exercise Sciences student, said: “It was good hearing from someone who has a lot of experience behind him, and seeing what kind of person is behind the social media personality. My question was around motivation strategies; I’m looking forward to incorporating his advice into my daily life.”

He spoke to students about how he started his journey by handing out flyers for his bootcamps, to now having over 3million views on YouTube and millions of followers on social media.

Josh Shelley, a Level 3 Sport and Exercise Sciences student, said: “I took away a lot of useful information that will help me in the future. I used to join in with his PE sessions during lockdown, and today’s advice reminded me that age doesn’t matter, you can achieve your goals if you put the effort in.”

Catherine Hirst, Talent United and Enterprise Coordinator at Barnsley College, added: “We are really grateful to Joe for giving up his time to speak to us, he was motivational and gave some brilliant advice to our students.

“The College is committed to transforming the lives of all its students and we aim to provide the highest quality provision possible. This helps to raise our students’ aspirations and provide opportunities for them to achieve their full potential.”