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LET’S GET MOVING with Sir Mo Farah
Primary Times speaks with Sir Mo Farah, exploring fun ways to keep fit this summer and the exciting ‘Mo’s Mission’ initiative.
A four-time Olympic gold medallist and one of Britain’s greatest athletes, Sir Mo Farah is not just a champion on the track – he’s also on a mission to help families get active together. Through ‘Mo’s Mission’, he’s encouraging children to enjoy fitness in fun, simple ways – especially during the summer holidays!
Sir Mo believes staying active should feel like play, not pressure. We caught up with him to chat about the importance of a healthy lifestyle, family fitness, and how ‘Mo’s Mission’ is helping young people along the way…
Did you always want to be a runner?
When I was growing up all I wanted to be was a footballer. I am a big Arsenal fan. However, as I got older I realised I wasn’t actually very good and so I better try something else!
How does it feel winning gold at the Olympics?
It is very hard to put into words. It’s just everything. Happiness, pride, delight, relief, all thrown at you at the same time.
What are your favourite family activities to keep fit during the summer holidays?
We often go on bike rides together, and just the other day we went on a long canoe journey. I am also guided by the kids. Whatever they want to do, I try to support and encourage them. The key is just finding something that you and your family/friends enjoy. Remember it is about being active and having fun.
Can you tell us about ‘Mo’s Mission’ and what you hope to achieve?
The Youth Sport Trust is dedicated to improving children and young people’s wellbeing and they have identified that at the moment, the system is not working. We have too many inactive, unhappy and unhealthy children. Mo’s Mission is aimed to get young people to do at least 60 minutes a day through PE, sport and play. Every young person should grow up happy and healthy and have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
How important is it to teach children about a healthy lifestyle?
I think it is one of the most important lessons that they can learn today. Phones, iPads, and social media are a big problem now for the younger generation and we have to educate children about why they need to exercise and why it is good for them. We need to give them choices and opportunities, and children have to be given a helping hand.
Are there any fun new projects in the works?
I have my own YouTube series called Run With Mo. Please keep an eye out for some big episodes. I am also involved in the new RunGP series, aiming to revolutionise road running around the world. I’ll also be playing in Soccer Aid for UNICEF again this year which I’m really excited about. I get to live my football dream once more so please make sure you support that!
Primary Times encourages you to lace up your trainers and get active together!
Photography © PACE Sports Management