There seems to be a Role Model phenomenon. There’s never been another generation
where the assignment and importance of a role model has been so keenly
described. We’ve created a society where those who are successful are, by
default, a role model. But what does that mean to them and to those who look up
and aspire to be them?
I keenly describe
myself as a role model because I understand that my actions and behaviour have influence over those around me. Within my social sphere I would argue that I
have more influence than say Victoria Beckham or Jessie Ennis.
With this in mind I
believe we should all look to be role models, particularly with regards to sport
and fitness. We will not combat the obesity epidemic by relying on the Olympic
athletes to inspire the younger generation entirely on their own! We need to be
the inspiration, to show our own friends and family that we can and are
embracing a healthy active lifestyle. The vast majority of us will never be
top-flight athletes but we can all endeavour to take on the fitness challenge.
I don’t underestimate
the impact athletes do have on the aspirations of young people, especially
those who have talent and want to commit to a sporting pursuit. The effect is
ever more potent when successful female athletes are given a platform on which
to talk about their experiences. A young person needs to be able to relate to
that story and compare it to their own circumstances, to create the “if they
can do it, I can do it to’ effect.
Because women’s sport
doesn’t currently have priority we’re struggling to draw out these stories.
This needs to change, and we know this. We have the privilege (!) to learn from
the mistakes in men’s sport – misbehaving footballers, disgraced golfers etc.
With the right guidance the female athletes of the future can be more than just
a runner, a rower etc. as teachers, coaches and parents can instill in young
women the importance of their influence, and the burden and responsibility of
success.
But remember we can
all do this, and we shouldn’t pass the buck to these sporty young folk. We all need
to step up and be role models too! The fact is we already are. So ask yourself
the question - if you were a teenage now would you aspire to be the person you
are today?