They were all assessed at the outset and again at the end of 14 weeks using a standardised set of tests and measurements.

During the intervening weeks, they followed a customised exercise programme under the watchful eyes of Nuffield trainers Julia and Luke. Over this time, Julia observed, the ones who used to take the lift up to the gym upon arrival started taking the stairs, while things like posture improved noticeably. All six recorded improvements against their starting points: the data is being prepared to make a case for rolling out the project.