Here’s a wake-up call that’s ringing louder than my alarm after a late-night tussle with insomnia: our families are squaring off on fitness!
Yes, on this National Fitness Day, it’s not just about sweating it out alone; it’s a collective scramble up the health ladder that has both the ankle-biters and the old-timers worried about each other’s fitness levels.
A recent survey, orchestrated by the good people at ukactive and executed with precision by Savanta, pulls back the curtain on a startling scene—56% of UK adults reckon the youngsters are slacking more than they ever did.
That number shoots up to a whopping 73% and 75% among the 55 to 74-year-olds and the over-75s, respectively.
It seems our sprightly youth might be dodging more than just chores, with 57% of adults gnawing their nails over the plunging physical activity of the younger brigade.
Meanwhile, a cheeky counter-poll by Beano Brain flipped the script, revealing a mere 37% of kids give their parental units a passing grade in the fitness department. Talk about a fitness face-off!
As the theme “Your Health is for Life” echoes across the realm on this National Fitness Day, the message is clear: health and fitness are not just passing fancies but lifelong pursuits.
Across the UK, free activities are sprouting up like mushrooms in a damp forest—gyms, pools, leisure centres, and even online platforms are throwing open their doors to encourage everyone to get moving.
Highlighting the festivities, Paralympic gold medallist Maisie Summers-Newton and Olympic weightlifter Emily Campbell are making a splash at the London Aquatics Centre.
They’re not just here to show off; they’re here to spread the gospel that movement and activity are for every soul, no matter the age or skill.
Maisie, fresh from bagging her primary school teaching degree—talk about multi-talented—shares a nugget of gold, “It doesn’t matter how old you are or what your ability, physical activity is such an important thing for everyone to be able to enjoy and benefit from.
“I was inspired to be an athlete by watching the stars at London 2012 but more than my gold medals, it’s the enjoyment and the way being active makes me feel that is important to me.
“National Fitness Day is a great time to get started, try something new or get back to being more active in a way that you enjoy.”
Inspired by the titans of London 2012, she’s not just chasing gold medals but fostering a love for staying active.
Emily Campbell chimes in with her rallying cry, urging everyone to ditch the stereotypes and embrace the joy of movement on National Fitness Day. “National Fitness Day is our chance to shine a light on the importance of physical activity, as well as our nation’s brilliant gyms, pools and leisure centres that support people every day to be active in whatever way works for them.
“For me, it’s all about celebrating movement and I know how important it is for people to take that first step so they can find what they enjoy and create that habit for a healthy life.
“My message is to forget the stereotypes, you are stronger than you think so get involved today and try something new for your own happiness and health.” she beams.
On the flip side, ukactive’s survey sends a sombre note, with 51% fearing the NHS might buckle under the strain if the trend of couch-potato kids continues.
Yet, hope isn’t lost as nearly half of the surveyed whipper-snappers recognise the perks of an active life, well aware of the shield it offers against a laundry list of ailments—from diabetes to depression.
Huw Edwards, the main man at ukactive, lays down the challenge: “More people are recognising the incredible physical and mental benefits of being active throughout their lives.
“These findings show that there is a real difference in how children view their parent’s health and vice versa, suggesting that more must be done to encourage people of all ages to maintain an active lifestyle.
“We’re on a mission to make the UK the most active nation in Europe due to the endless health, social and economic benefits that this can bring, so we’re encouraging everyone to celebrate National Fitness Day today and get involved in taking the first step in leading a healthier, happier life.”
Sports Minister, Stephanie Peacock MP, also added: “Health and wellbeing are critical to building a fit and happy nation and these new findings from ukactive highlight some challenging perceptions about fitness levels across society.
“We are committed to giving people every opportunity to lead healthy and active lives so whatever your age or physical ability, National Fitness Day is the perfect time to get moving and feel the full benefits of an active lifestyle.”
So, lace up those trainers, and let’s step up to the plate, not just for a day but for life.
To join the festivities or learn more about how you can start your journey to a fitter, happier you, visit www.nationalfitnessday.com.
Let’s get moving, people—every step counts!!!