Fitness challenge is launched

THE link between childhood fitness and long-term physical and mental health is the key focus of this year’s Irish Life Health Schools’ Fitness Challenge.

The goal is to educate and equip young people with the skills and knowledge to incorporate exercise into their daily routine to help improve and maintain both physical and mental health. 

Prof. Niall Moyna, DCU, who oversees the Challenge, said: “Over the last eight years, the Irish Life Health Schools’ Fitness Challenge has proven that substantial improvements in cardiovascular fitness can occur after as little as six weeks of regular exercise. 

“A recent study carried out over five weeks where participants took part in low to moderate exercise saw a significant reduction in depression and anxiety. 

“Aside from the obvious physical health benefits of physical activity, it is proven to also have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. 

“It is vital that we place a greater emphasis on exercise in secondary schools especially as children progress through school when exam and other social pressures increase.”

Mary-Kate Slattery, Law student and amateur boxer, hopes that highlighting the long-term health benefits of fitness will encourage secondary school students to take part. 

“I personally struggled with mental health during my early teenage years,” said Ms Slattery.

“I truly realised the power of physical movement as a form of stress release when I started boxing. It gives me such relief, allows me to express myself and to escape day-to-day stresses and overall, I feel stronger both physically and mentally. 

“If my story can inspire even one student to get involved in sport or any form of movement, I would be delighted.”

Irish Life Health campaign partner Thomas Barr said exercising benefits your physical health as well as your mental wellbeing. 

“I’ve always used my athletics as a break from studying – nothing cleared my head like getting out for a training session with my friends,” he said. 

To find out more and to register for the challenge, visit: www.irishlifehealth.ie/fitnesschallenge