Source : Perth Now news
Physical Education (PE) has put millions of Brits put off exercise for life.
A new study has found nearly a third of middle-aged adults still feel “traumatised” by PE, with many carrying negative memories decades later.
The poll of 2,385 people aged 50 to 65 revealed 29 per cent remain haunted by their school experiences, while 28 per cent say it has stopped them taking part in sport altogether.
Being picked last for teams and feeling self-conscious were among the most common triggers, with 40 per cent of respondents recalling both.
Now, charity Age UK is urging people to shake off those memories and give exercise another go.
Chief executive Paul Farmer said: “Our research shows that millions of mid-lifers feel held back by past sports memories.
“Challenging PE lessons, worries about judgment and feeling self-conscious, can make physical activity feel out of reach – and can feel like something ‘only young people do.’
“With Act Now, Age Better, and the support of our many sporting partners, our aim is to create inclusive, enjoyable opportunities that genuinely meet people where they are.”
The charity insists times have changed, with modern sports groups far more welcoming and inclusive than in the past.
It has teamed up with major organisations to offer free taster sessions in activities ranging from badminton and swimming to boxing and rugby.
Dame Kelly Holmes, the 800m and 1,500m Olympic champion at the Athens 2004 games, backed the campaign.
She said: “The benefits of sport and exercise are endless.
“It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional athlete competing on a world stage, or a busy parent who has just managed to carve out a few hours for yourself one evening a week to head along to your local netball group.
“It’s about self-care, making new connections, feeling team spirit, supporting mental health, getting outside and feeling strong and capable for as long as possible.
“It might feel like a small thing, or a task that can be shoved to the bottom of a never-ending to-do list, but trust me – it can make a world of difference.”
Sally Gunnell, who won gold in the 400m hurdles at the Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games, added: “For me, being active has always meant far more to me than medals or podiums.
“It’s about feeling strong in your body, clear in your mind and connected to the people around you.
“You don’t have to be an athlete to get moving and it doesn’t have to feel daunting.
“There are so many options out there from local exercise classes, to badminton and bowls, and cricket to pickleball, there has never been a better time to make your next move to step towards a healthier later life, and a small step today can make a real difference to how you feel tomorrow.”
