Paul Farmer
CEO, Age UK
While we can’t prevent ageing, we can take action earlier on in life to help us age in the best way possible — like staying active.
Think of sport as an investment in my future, like paying into my own physical pension plan. For me, it’s running and cycling, but I truly believe that everyone can find their activity.
Feel stronger in your body and mind
Age UK supporter and Olympic Gold medallist, Sally Gunnell, recently said: “I’ve been lucky enough to represent Great Britain and experience some incredible highs in my career, but 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. That feeling doesn’t end when the competitions do; it’s something we all deserve at every stage of life.”
I agree with Sally, however, our latest Act Now, Age Better research revealed that negative early PE experiences are one of the barriers stopping millions of those aged 50–65 from being physically active. For many, this began decades ago as nearly half (6.7 million) used to dread school PE lessons, millions remembered feeling self‑conscious about their body (40%) or being picked last for teams (40%).
Groups that can help you get moving
With the right opportunities and support, I’m convinced that all of us can get active, connected and motivated for the long term. This year, we have teamed up with over 50 sporting partners, including Badminton England, British Cycling, England Netball, Lawn Tennis Association and Pickleball England (to name a few) to bring sport back into people’s lives — this time without the trauma — and to help people find an activity that suits their goals and lifestyle and, most importantly, something they enjoy.
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
As Sally says, you don’t have to be an athlete to get moving, and it doesn’t have to feel daunting:
“It might be getting back into a sport you once loved or trying something completely new. I know from my own journey and from being part of a team that taking that first step is often the hardest, but it’s also the one that changes everything. 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.”
