International Men’s Day is a global observance that celebrates the positive contributions of men and highlights those role models within our communities. It’s an amazing opportunity to spotlight positive male role models who embody healthy living, their stories can help inspire others to prioritise health.
Highlighting different topics when observing national days such as this, will in turn spark a continuous conversations about possible change and action needed. This ranges from men’s health and mental health to challenging stereotypes and viewpoints. Statistics and research show that men find it more difficult than women to open up about their health, especially mental health which is why this international day is perfect for showcasing how normal and vital open conversations are.
For those that struggle to start a conversation, groups, clubs and sport teams are the perfect support network for feeling included and safe which can encourage discussion. Walk and Talk 4 Men who utilise outdoor spaces and walking are dedicating their efforts to using movement to start chats between men. Their message of nobody is alone shows that strength comes from coming together and opening up, walking is their tool for encouraging this.
An important part of this years International Men’s Day messaging is spotlighting positive male role models. Athletes and Olympians are not the only role models we can look to in the sporting world!
Broadcaster, Spencer Matthews took on an awesome challenge this year by smashing 30 marathons in 30 days across the desert! He raised more than £500,000 for charities including Suicide & Co who support those bereaved by suicide, their work also highlights how men are more at risk because of the stigma surrounding opening up and expressing difficult feelings. This unbelievable example of activity is incredible, demonstrating the power that movement has. He is an example of what hard work, determination and passion can help you accomplish.
Of course, there are too many positive male examples in sport to name but some have gone above and beyond to shout about the benefits of movement and how life-changing it can be.
Mark Cavendish, British cyclist who recently broke the record for most Tour de France victories, is a shining example. Mark, a cyclist who enjoys the North Essex roads, has had an impressive journey throughout his career and has always been an advocate for cycling. His messaging about the physical and mental benefits has aligned with his passion for local clubs who offer a social element. Recently, he has publicly spoken about his depression and shed a light on how getting help was the catalyst for him recognising what needed to change in his life. When we have role models such as him bringing these life lessons to people’s attention, it encourages other to evaluate how they can get help, get moving and listen to what their mind and body needs.
Alfie Hewett is another inspiring athlete we’d love to highlight, bringing home a gold from this year’s Paris Paralympics is just one amazing part of his story. At 7 years of age, an active young Alfie was told he was wheelchair bound and would have to say goodbye to his love of sport and movement. Knowing that life wouldn’t be the same without activity, Alfie and his family looked to wheelchair tennis and he often looks back at picking up that racket for the first time and saying it was life-changing.
The opportunity to engage with a new activity and breakdown the barriers set before him was just the start. The competition, friends and happiness that followed were all additional benefits that Alfie Hewett loves to preach. His journey is an example to those who may feel a long-term condition or health diagnosis has limited their chance to get active.
On International Men’s Day, we look to the role models in society and say thank you. Not only for challenging those stereotypes and views but for being an inspiration to others and the next generation who can see that men can do whatever they want when they truly believe in themselves and follow their passion.
