Collaborations with athletes, sporting bodies and local clubs is the way to engage kids

Duncan Jefford

South East regional director,

Everyone Active

I read with interest about the Sport and Recreation Alliance #RightToBeActive campaign to make physical activity a ‘fundamental right’ for children. I’m pleased to see action being taken, and have signed the petition.

“Our experience shows there’s a wealth of opportunity out there to engage kids in activity. Health clubs alone can’t turn the tide of inactivity, but working with inspirational individuals, local athletes, community bodies and schools can work wonders. To reach kids you need to fire up their teachers and parents too, with accessible, affordable opportunities.

“The leisure industry has a responsibility to do this: we’re at the forefront of facilities provision and must open our doors, pools, pitches and sports courts. Collaborations are the way forward. Our Alex Danson Hockey Academy and Max Whitlock Gymnastics courses are going down a storm as are our junior netball coaching sessions, delivered in partnership with national league Benecos Mavericks.

Local clubs and athletes can also make great partners. It’s all about reaching out to your community, finding people who share your passion, joining forces and creating engaging activities.

“At the most basic level, simply hooking up with people like iDEA – providers of children’s virtual activity classes – can quickly bring junior martial arts, street dance, juggling, and hula-hooping into your studio. Like our inactive kids, we need to move now. There’s plenty to work with out there and leisure facilities are in a prime position to kick things off.,null

“ It’s all about reaching out to your community, finding people who share your passion, joining forces and creating engaging activites for children”

Everone Active has pledged to get 1 million 4-11 year olds engaged in gymnastics by 2022 / PHOTO: SHITTERSTOCK.COM