Premier League kicks off drive to make children active
TELEVISION PRESENTERS Gabby Logan and Radzi Chinyanganya, and the captain of Arsenal’s women’s team Alex Scott, are among the professionals backing a new scheme to help primary school teachers to inspire children to become more active.
Leeds-born Ms Logan, a former Welsh international gymnast, will join will join teachers, parents and students at a school in London today to launch Super Movers, an initiative from the BBC and the Premier League.
The campaign is being launched after a survey commissioned for the two organisations found that more than half of parents said their young children were better behaved and in a better mood after exercise.
The programme will help teachers to get children moving throughout the day with a series of routines and activities.
Ms Logan said: “As a mum to two sporty children, I see firsthand how important it is for children to be as active as possible to get the most out of their day, both mentally and physically, so Super Movers is a really innovative way to do just that.”
On Thursday, Ms Scott will join children’s TV presenters at a Live Lesson hosted by Liverpool FC at Anfield stadium.
She said: “It didn’t surprise me at all to learn that when children are more active on a daily basis, they get more from their school day and beyond.”
Mr Chinyanganya said he was “lucky enough to get to take part in regular physical challenges and activities” as a presenter.
“I can vouch for how enjoyable it is and how much of a boost it gives you,” he added.
The campaign will give participating schools the chance to compete for “treats” from the Premier League and its clubs, including the chance to temporarily host the league trophy.
Premier League chairman Richard Scudamore said: “We recognise the power football has to connect with young people and positively influence their lives.
“Super Movers will encourage children to be more active and engaged.”