I currently work with 38 schools in the Gloucester City area and help to support them with their P.E provision, by providing CPD and professional support, leading practical sessions in schools.
I am a keen sportsman and before lockdown enjoyed playing a variety of different sports with friends, including 5 aside football with a group of teachers from Upton St Leonards Primary. I find it’s a fantastic opportunity to keep active and socialise, while helping to support my mental wellbeing.
While we were physically unable to support schools during lockdown, I started creating short Twitter clips with active challenges to inspire people at home, to use the things around them and create fun, active games for the whole family. At the Gloucester Schools Sports Network (GSSN) we are also constantly updating our website with links to national campaigns and local events that children can enjoy from their home too.
Although there are limitations on how we can be active and interact with others, fortunately we are still able to exercise outdoors.
As we are spending more time at home and our everyday lives have changed, it’s incredibly important for our general health and mental wellbeing to be physically active. I’ve found the opportunity to ride my bike into the woods and be physically active not only help me feel physically fit but has an equally positive impact on my mental wellbeing.
I would encourage someone who is struggling to keep active, to use the extra time they have, to try something new. Try and take a walk and explore the area they live in. Don’t try and put too much pressure on yourself to do too much too soon, but challenge yourself with an active goal everyday.
After just a few days take notice of how you feel, both physically and mentally – you’ll be amazed at how you feel from making just small active changes!
