That title could be the name of a fantasy-based Hollywood flick, except this is no fantasy. If you always thought of Father Christmas as the jolly old man with a big middle, then be prepared to change that image. BBC News is reporting that actors who portray Santa Claus at the Bluewater Shopping Center in Kent, England have been asked to get with the fitness program and slim down before their annual meet n’ greet with the children.

The 12 commissioned Santas will be put through a punishing exercise regime to shed the excess pounds. [BBC]

All the property manager of the shopping center could say was that he was doing it for the kids - a fit Santa is better equipped to deliver all the goodies come Holiday Season, although he concedes that big is the right size for Father Christmas.

The best part?

Shoppers will be able to see the Santas sweat throughout November, under the watchful eye of their trainer. [BBC]

Nothing like watching your hero make fitness a regular part of his/her day. Children of the world, are you watching this?

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