Be the Role Model

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?