When it comes to health, exercise and emotional wellbeing, it sounds like many Irish families are caught between a rock and a hard place.
While we are significantly more informed on the topics than previous generations, our hectic lifestyles often mean it’s difficult to put our knowledge into practice on a regular basis.
According to recent research, while 68 per cent of those surveyed insist family health takes priority, six in ten admit their children are less active than they were at the same age.
Intrigued by the disparity, we caught up with Irish Life Health ambassador, Kathryn Thomas, who offered some top tips and handy hints into improving your family’s current health, securing their future health and protecting their mental health through exercise and activity.
1. Prioritise health
"Like you prioritise brushing your teeth or making your lunch or getting to work, the same needs to be done when it comes to health and exercise," Kathyn advised.
Acknowledging the hustle and bustle of everyday family life, Kathryn suggests setting aside some time every week to prioritise health by scheduling activities either per individual or as a family.
And while we may understandably struggle to devote an inordinate amount of time to exercise, it's important to remember that bursts of activity can be interspersed with daily activities.
"If you generally drive the kids to school, why not park about 1K away from the school and walk the rest of the way together?" she asked.
2. Find their interest
According to the same findings, 89 percent of Irish parents encourage their children to participate in physical activity and 64 percent seek healthy family activities in their free time, but what about those who struggle with reluctant children?
"Find their interest," Kathryn encourages. "Like I say, there's no point flogging a dead horse. There's no point dropping them to an activity they have no interest in week in and week out."
"Try out a few different things. Orienteering is fantastic as it's team-based and offers rewards. And look at what this year's Olympics have done for people's interest in rowing," she added.
So, be patient as your child tests the waters with a few activities and gets to grips with what works for them.
3. Find a balance
Kathryn is a big believer in the 80/20 rule, and in order to maintain a routine focussed on your family's health, it's important we strike a balance.
"When I go out for dinner, I have a starter, a main, a dessert and I have cheese, coffee and wine. But I also know that I’ll probably go for a 5K jog the next day or bring the dogs out to keep that balance," she explains.
Allowing the kids treats at the weekend and giving them some time on their electronics in addition to promoting a healthy diet and physical activity is a sure-fire way to encourage your child to find their feet when it comes to their own health and wellbeing.
