LOBBY MPs

As any UK based C25Ker will know, we have a General Election coming up, and this is always a time when MPs are more inclined to listen ~ yeah, right!!

I would like to try and get C25K, or similar, promoted at all UK state schools. If we can all write to our beloved MPs and urge them to, a) take a look at the C25K site, and, b) bring it to the attention of our glorious Education Secretary,Michael Gove.

We are forever hearing about the obesity epidemic, and the diabetes timebomb, so lets get active and lobby MPs to try and get schools involved. Most schools have running-enthusiast teachers, so they may not find the extra activity too onerous.

[Hidden]

I agree - the more that know and take part the better but, and there is always at least one, I temper that with a fact that I learnt a long time ago "you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink" as in I have done some of my runs round the local amateur athletics track which is also used by the local high school. One day, a class of I would say 40 to 45 "young ladies" were on the field and some of them were putting markers out for a game of rounders. When the teacher approached, at least 20 of them (and no I am not kidding) gave notes to the teacher which excused them from taking part!!

However, we can but try to encourage participation so with that in mind, rather than write to our MPs perhaps someone on the forum could possibly start an online petition which may attract attention and more signatures. Am afraid that I don't have the knowledge (technical or otherwise) to do so but maybe someone has.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I'm sure a petition would be a good extra, but there are so many of these on-line now, along with so many 'sign and e mail...' letters, which is why I am suggesting a good old-fashioned letter.

I'm just an old-fashioned 'Sally' at heart too.

[Vixchile Graduate]

Hello I totally agree that this should be promoted more in schools, GP's, by sports people, advertised in magazines, we should shout it from the roof tops. I totally agree with Want2run2 you can lead a horse to water...etc. There are so many issues like diet, home life, plus a who host of other issues that make physical education sometimes a very complex thing for young people. However your right we need to do something! If by introducing it to secondary schools helps one young adult then its worth it !

[Hidden in reply to Vixchile]

Thanks. The more we can get out running the better, and when better to catch people than when they are young and open to the idea.

[Tomas Graduate]

I think running is great. And more people running would be more great. But I have no desire to turn this lovely hobby into politics.

[Hidden]

Believe me, I am one of the least political people you would ever meet, but as a Scout and Cub leader I see far too many fat children who have never had the opportunity to find out about running.

Our son was not encouraged to do much sport at school ~ I'm afraid was the ultimate primary geek ~ but now he is one of the best rowers in the country and is an excellent runner and swimmer. He is still incredibly bright and after 4 controlled assessments in his English GCSE he has 100%.

What caused the change? He just asked if he could try rowing, we took him along, and the rest is history. It just captured his imagination, and that is what is needed in schools, and a promoted C25K or similar may, just may make a difference.

[Tomas Graduate]

I understand your point, and congratulations to your son. It sounds like you are good parents - something I think is far more important for instilling good habits in kids than schools are. But that's just my personal view.

I wish you all the best with your petition, even if I won't be participating