He was the nation's unofficial PE teacher who kept us moving during Covid lockdown in our living rooms. 

And now Joe Wicks has taken The Body Coach brand out on the road with his latest idea to boost families' physical and mental health. 

Move Manchester took over the city's Aviva Studios, the £242million cultural venue that opened in October, on the site of the former Granada Studios. 

The two-year-old who took part in Joe's daily, family-friendly YouTube workouts is now five and is more than familiar with the floppy haired fitness guru.

So in the spirit that is New Year resolutions to try and be just that bit healthier, and with a 20-month-old also in tow, off we went to see what the event was all about. 

There were workouts, yoga classes, workshops, as well as meet and greets and small talks with Joe Wicks and other guests over the weekend of January 27 and 28.

We took part in the Saturday afternoon's 'PE With Joe' session  – a fun, high energy 40-minute workout, followed by a Q&A with Joe. 

Row upon row of families, with big and little kids, filled up the vast hall doing star jumps, press-ups and mountain climbers to songs including George Ezra's Shotgun before a mass dance-along to Dance With Me Tonight by Olly Murs. 

The Bolton News: The event at Aviva Studios in Manchester

Then dozens of children lined up to pose their questions to Joe, everything from what football team he supports to who is his favourite superhero. The 38-year-old spent about 20 minutes answering questions and then fired T-shirt cannons into the crowd. 

Downstairs, there was chance to refuel with a drink and snack while hardy souls braved a Wim Hof-style ice bath outside. I know which one of those options I chose!

The venue itself is fantastic and all the staff working on the day were super attentive and friendly, I can't wait to visit for more events. 

Later that night for the older teens and adults, there was Joe's HIIT party and after party featuring a live DJ, followed by drinks, more music and a chance to chat to Joe. 

This time of year has the potential to be a bit miserable, with the gloomy weather and dark nights, so it was fun to get out and do something a bit different. 

It sounds like Joe has plans for more events in the future, keep up to date via thebodycoach.com.