Get active
Meet The Southwicks
The Southwicks
Nathan, 35
"I'd like to feel fit enough to go for regular runs and lose the weight around my belly."
Current activities: Football, once a week.
Jacqueline, 39
"I'd like to find more time to fit exercise into my day and to lose weight."
Current activities: Swimming, occasionally.
Gemma, 6
"I'd like to become a better swimmer and play as much sport as possible."
Current activities: Tennis and swimming.
Jake, 9
"I'd like to become a faster runner and swimmer so that I can win races."
Current activities: Tennis and swimming.
How did the Southwicks do?
Week 1 update
The Southwicks started the week off well, but poor weather forced them to skip their Thursday walking session.
"We made up for it though, by walking to the shops on Saturday," says Jacqueline. "We'd usually take the car, but from now on we'll aim to walk or ride instead." The Southwick kids enjoyed walking and created games to make it fun. "We played ‘first one to spot the red car', and beat Mum and Dad in power-walking," says Gemma.
Week 2 update
By the end of week two, the Southwicks are full of energy and enthusiasm. "The kids loved the Friday hill runs," says Nathan. "It was fun trying to beat each other, I beat Dad twice," says Jake. Running has proven to be a hit with the Southwicks and they're aiming to get to the park at least once a week to improve their times. Even Jacqueline, who has never liked running, is surprised by her progress. "It was great working together as a team and cheering each other on!"
Week 3 update
The Southwicks are lucky enough to own bikes, but like many of us rarely find the time to go on family rides. "Thanks to Dan's plan, it was easy to incorporate cycling into our day," says Nathan. "On Saturday we packed a light lunch and rode to the park for a picnic. It was great to get some fresh air and the kids enjoyed the fact that they were faster riders than me," says Jacqueline. Jake adds: "The best part about riding my bike is that it doesn't feel like exercise. It's also an easy way to get to my friends' houses."
Week 4 update
The Southwicks are thrilled at their achievements over the last month and can't believe how easy it has been to lead a more active life. "The best thing about Dan's plan has been that it's family-friendly," says Jacqueline. "I'm not the fittest person in the world, so if I can do it anyone can!" Nathan says: "I've noticed that I have a lot more energy and the weight around by belly has shifted a bit!" And what do the Southwick kids have to say?
"I'm running a lot faster and I don't get as tired," says Jake.
Gemma adds: "Following the wall chart and reaching our goals has been so much fun!"