‘Skateboarding modified my life’ – Olympian Lola Tambling encourages children to embrace new sports activities

Olympian Lola Tambling is encouraging kids to get out there ‘find their thing’ as four in 10 kids have been prevented from trying a sport due to the cost of equipment and lack of facilities.

A survey of 1,000 children aged five to 16 found that 37% wanted to try a sport but were unable to do so. Parents involved in the study said this was largely due to the high cost of equipment and limited access to facilities. Their child’s lack of confidence was also another barrier.

The survey revealed that physical education (PE) sessions at school are the most common setting for children to engage in physical activity (54%). However, 38% of children admitted to a lack of interest in most sports, with 9% admitting they only exercise because they ‘have to’. not because they enjoy it.

In response to this issue, Olympic skateboarding prodigy Lola Tambling partnered with Weetabix, to urge youngsters to break out of their comfort zones and attempt new sports and physical pursuits.

During an event held at the BaySixty6 Skatepark in Notting Hill, London, the 17 year old shared tips and techniques with admirers and budding skaters, saying: “Skateboarding changed my life. I want other kids to find their thing too.”

She stressed that trying something new might be intimidating, but it’s also the initial step in discovering what you are really passionate about.

According to the research, children are most likely to be inspired to get active by their family (57%), friends (53%), and teachers (35%). A fifth are also more likely to be active it’s part of a team sport as they prefer this to individual activities.

Walking – whether to school or with the dog – was one of the top forms of activity, as well as playing football. Other frequent pursuits include swimming (37%), playground activities (34%), and cycling (24%).

The event included a Bix Breakfast Bar, giving guests the chance to try the new Weetabix Crispy Minis Caramelised Biscuit flavour.

Speaking about the event and Lola’s enthusiasm, brand spokesperson Emily Hill, said: “When you listen to Lola talk about what skateboarding has given her outside the bowl, it makes you realise how significant the impact of enhancing participation in sport can be to youngsters, whatever sport that may be.

“That’s why we want to encourage the next generation to try new activities that might help them find a new hobby or passion.”