Today gives us a chance to tell the real stories of women, and mums in particular, who get active in the way that’s right for them. It helps show what activity really looks like in all its sweaty, jiggly glory! Our ambassadors are fantastic advocates for inspiring women, being real and true, and super empowering
It’s not easy to be active and take time for yourselves when you’re running around after a 2 year-old, ferrying your teenagers to friends or cleaning the house up after the little ones – we get it. Being a mum is so amazing and important, but it’s also a good reminder to look after yourself and take time for you.
This Girl Can Essex ambassador Nicola Hull said:
“It’s so important to build activity into your daily routine and not feel guilty for having ‘you’ time. Movement has so many benefits for the mind, as well as the body. We were all people before we were mums, and we shouldn’t forget that. You can still be you without feeling guilty, because we are role models at the end of the day, and we want our children to lead happy, active lives too.”
Helping to show just the broadness of activity women can get involved in, Kirsty Leveque, another This Girl Can Essex ambassador commented:
“I’m a Mum of 2, both born by c section, but I compete in the 19+ ladies category for trampolining at the age of 36! I’m still wearing that lycra leotard and loving every second of it.”
Trying to ‘fit’ activity in can be hard but doing things as a family can really help. Ambassador Ruth Ford added:
“As a mum of boys, I was keen to not be ‘left out’. My eldest loves riding bikes so as soon as he started to learn to ride BMX, so did I! Now we all race BMX and I think it’s great that we can all do it as a family – my husband too. It’s really important to make sure we get active together – going for walks, riding our bikes especially. Making exercise part of everyday life and a routine is key.”
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is #BreakTheBias. So, we ask you to all be responsible for your own thoughts and actions – all day, every day, and together we can break the bias, free of stereotypes and discrimination. Instead highlight that the world is diverse and inclusive, and, especially among our This Girl Can Essex community, everyone deserves to be valued and celebrated.
As ambassador Verne Lewis, said: “Be kind to yourself. Take it slow and celebrate every small win!”
Read more about our incredible This Girl Can Essex ambassadors, who have shared their stories for International Women’s Day below.
