As a child, I was always on the move — netball, swimming, athletics, ballet, gymnastics, soccer and even horse riding — you name it, I’ve probably tried it!
And yes, the *cough* running joke in my family is that I’d try a new sport — ballet, gymnastics, you name it — right up util I got the full uniform … and then I’d promptly lose interest when that spark of something new wore off.
Netball was the exception (LOVED it!!), as was soccer! Ballet and gymnastics? Unfortunately I didn’t stick with them beyond a couple of months maybe, and honestly, kinda regretting it now! ANYWAY.
The point is, sport and movement were a HUGE part of my life growing up and helped shaped my confidence (which honestly, was NOT very high back then), resilience, sense of belonging and responsibility, and my friendships.
Now, as an adult, I still love being active!
Running is more my “thing” these days! It clears my mind, keeps me in shape … there’s nothing better than being “run fit” and that tired feeling you feel when you come home from a long run!
So, yes, I LOVE running and cannot wait for our Thule Urban Glide 3 all-terrain stroller to arrive so that I can take Miss A out on runs with me and together we can take over our local running scene 🙂
I’ve taken a few adult ballet classes in recent years and really enjoyed them — especially the barre work.
So, now I’ve made barre workouts a regular part of my routine, and am loving how it tones and strengthens my body, especially as I continue to rebuild post-pregnancy strength.
And, of course, those who know me, know that I spent a good decade participating in triathlon — from short course tri’s, Olympic distance, 70.3’s, to full iron distance … You name it, I’ve done it!
So, because I know firsthand how much movement has enriched my life — physically, mentally, emotionally, socially — I want the same for Miss A.
I’ll NEVER understand how some people — some women included! — think it’s almost “cool” to avoid sports, like being active somehow clashes with being pretty or something! *Insert eye roll*
And trust me: I’ve had all the “lovely” opinions thrown at me — “Why do you train so much?” “Why are you so obsessed with running?” “Triathlon? Women belong in the kitchen!” YUP!! Even that last one. WHAT. A. JOKE!
With attitudes like that, it’s no wonder so many girls give up on sports from a young age.
In fact, researchers suggest that around 60% of Australian girls quit organised sport by age 15, often due to low confidence (probably from lack of support), body image concerns or feeling like sport isn’t for them.
Clearly, keeping girls in sport isn’t as easy as simply signing them up!
And worryingly, there’s very little research on how to stop this trend, making it harder to create solutions.
As mummas, we have the power to change this — not just for our daughters, but for ourselves!
I mean, imagine how much more energy you’d have to run around after your toddler if you were physically fit!
When I read about the lack of research on how to keep girls engaged in sport, it really made me think: if we don’t create and environment that encourages our girls to stay active, who will?
It starts at home!
If Miss A sees me prioritising exercise — not as a chore, but as something that makes me strong, happy and confident — she’s more likely to follow.
Whether it’s a weekend run, a barre class, or simply running around at the local park or playing at the beach, our ACTIONS matter more than our WORDS!
Girls need to see women ENJOYING movement, not just using it to “get fit” or to “lose weight”.
They need to feel like sport is FUN and is FOR THEM, and not just for the boys.
That’s why, through activities like baby ballet and swimming lessons, and our daily walks — and soon runs with mumma in the running pram — I’m making a real effort to not only keep Miss A engaged in various physical activities but to also lead by example.
So, if you’ve been thinking about getting back into sport or fitness, in as the popular Nike slogan tells us — JUST DO IT!
Do it for yourself and also for the next generation — those little eyes watching you and copying your every move (or lack thereof! Hmm).
As mummas, let’s show our daughters that movement is a lifelong gift, not something to outgrow.
It’s time to inspire the next generation of fearless, fit, strong and healthy women!
Let’s DO THIS!
xo G.
editor, journalist, digital content creator with a background in nutrition & dietetics.
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