KIDS’ FITNESS Learning to be active
In the face of high levels of inactivity and obesity among the nation’s children, a growing number of initiatives are rising to the challenge of getting kids moving again. Julie Fisher reports
ACTIVE MOVEMENT
Mike Loosemore, lead consultant in sport and exercise medicine, University College Hospital, London
“A
ctive Movement is a behaviour changing programme that uses two characters – Stan
(standing) and Sid (sitting) – to introduce children to the fact that standing is good. It aims to engage children through recognition and familiarity, and instils greater self-awareness of their physicality. “Inspiring children aged 0–11 years, the
characters are incorporated throughout the Active Movement programme and encourage standing up and movement within the daily routine. “Initially a campaign of posters,
language and role-playing, the programme intensifies in two further phases to be more dynamic through voiceovers, dolls, storybooks, nursery
developed that improves staff health while empowering them to educate children. Parents also become involved through children’s homework and constant communication. “Abberley Parochial VC Primary School
in Worcestershire applied the programme across the whole school of five- to 11-year-olds. Pupils were given a series of daily movements to do, particularly during lessons when they would normally be sedentary for long periods. “The Sid and Stan characters were
rhymes, games, homework, community integration and even a ‘live’ visit. “The Active Movement Community
concept also embraces parents and staff, and an adult programme has been
incorporated into everyday language during the school day, as well as additional activities during playtime and team events. Special homework was provided, and a series of posters, announcements, comics, leaflets and posters helped to educate the children about the benefits of activity. “The results have been astounding.
There was an emotional connection with Stan and Sid, along with a clear retention of their positive health messages. Behavioural questionnaires completed by staff about the children showed improvements in self-esteem, health optimism, self-protection against illness and health commitment (in one case by joining a gym). “Parent interviews highlighted an
excitement and commitment to the programme that has led to discussions with local secondary schools, in a bid to maintain children’s progress. A secondary school programme is now being developed and will focus on the curriculum, incorporating the scientific and biological dangers of inactivity compared with the physical, emotional and long-term benefits of being active. “Overall, the programme aims to be
58 Read Health Club Management online at
healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital The programme uses role play, storybooks, rhymes, games and homework
a continuous and progressive process throughout school life, which we believe will make behavioural change more embedded and long-lasting.”
May 2015 © Cybertrek 2015
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