Emily Campbell, the powerhouse Olympic weightlifter who’s been flying the flag for Team GB, is lifting more than just barbells these days.
Fresh from her triumphant appearance at the Paris 2024 Olympics—where she snagged Team GB’s 65th and final medal—Emily is now on a mission to get the whole of Britain up and moving.
And with her new role as an ambassador for National Fitness Day, she’s got plenty to say about how strength training isn’t just for the seasoned athlete but for anyone who wants to feel better, live healthier, and have a bit of fun while doing it.
Set your calendars for September 18, folks! That’s when National Fitness Day kicks off, and Emily, alongside Paralympic swimming star Maisie Summers-Newton, will be firing up the festivities at London Aquatics Centre.
It’s a day that’s all about getting people to try something new, get active, and break a sweat—no matter their fitness level or age.
Breaking Down Barriers in Fitness
Now, if you’re thinking this is just another fitness campaign, think again. Emily Campbell isn’t your average ambassador, and her story isn’t just about medals and podiums—though she’s got plenty of those.
She made history at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics by becoming the first British woman to win a weightlifting medal, taking home the silver.
Since then, she’s become a vocal advocate for making fitness and strength training accessible for everyone, regardless of where they’re starting from.
“National Fitness Day is about showing that it doesn’t matter where you start from; everyone can take the first step to being more active,” Emily said, making it clear that this is a campaign with heart.
She believes gyms and leisure centres are more than just places to work out; they’re community hubs that offer a safe place to socialise, meet new friends, and build a healthier life.
A Champion’s Call to Action
Emily’s not just talking the talk; she’s walking the walk—or, rather, lifting the weight. She’s planning to open her own gym, one that welcomes everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.
Her vision? A place where age, ability, or background doesn’t matter; what counts is the desire to get moving and build a healthier lifestyle.
“I’m proud of what I have achieved for TeamGB, but for me, it’s even more important to use my platform to show the nation that strength training should be for everybody, so we can all experience the physical and mental benefits throughout our lives,” she says.
And you know what? She means it. Emily isn’t just flexing her muscles; she’s flexing her influence to get more people into gyms and onto fitness mats across the country.
What’s in Store on National Fitness Day?
This year’s National Fitness Day theme, ‘Your Health is for Life,’ resonates deeply with Emily. Powered by ukactive, the day is set to be a national celebration of fitness, with thousands of gyms, swimming pools, and sports clubs throwing open their doors and offering a host of free activities.
Think everything from yoga and pilates to high-energy spin classes and, of course, a chance to try your hand at weightlifting.
It doesn’t stop there. Schools and workplaces across the UK are encouraged to get involved too.
Whether it’s a ’10@10’—ten minutes of exercise at 10 a.m.—or a group activity that gets everyone moving, National Fitness Day is all about participation, no matter your fitness level.
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, couldn’t be happier to have Emily on board. “We’re delighted to have Emily’s support for National Fitness Day 2024, and she has such an important message to share about the inclusive nature of physical activity,” he said.
“We hope that with Emily’s support, more people will be inspired to experience the power of strength and fitness training as part of leading a happier, healthier, and more active life.”
Getting Britain Moving, One Step at a Time
If last year’s numbers are anything to go by—where an estimated 10 million people got off their sofas and got moving on National Fitness Day—the UK is ready for more.
And with partners like men’s mental health charity Movember and the sports reward platform Endurance Zone teaming up again, the day promises to be even bigger and better.
But don’t just take Emily’s word for it; get involved yourself! The National Fitness Day Location Finder is a great tool to find out where you can join in the fun.
Whether it’s a local gym, a swimming pool, or even your workplace, there’s no shortage of ways to take that first step toward a fitter, healthier you.
Emily Campbell has lifted the hopes of a nation before, and now she’s doing it again, one kettlebell at a time.
“I’d encourage everyone to get out there and try something new on National Fitness Day—you never know where it could take you!” she says.
And with Emily leading the charge, we reckon it’s going to take you somewhere pretty special.
The National Fitness Day Location Finder can help people to find their nearest venue simply by entering their postcode.
For more information about the campaign and to get involved, visit the National Fitness Day website.