Fun 4 Life
Fun 4 Life is a weight management programme for young people in Walsall between the ages of 8 and 16. Fun 4 Life is part of the Walsall Active Youth (WAY) programme funded by Sport England and is delivered by Walsall Council Sport and Leisure Development Services and works in partnership with Walsall tPCT and under the guidance of Carnegie Weight Management, UK Leaders in this field. The programme is aimed at individuals who are either overweight or obese and wish to make lifestyle changes in order to prevent an increase in weight.
The young people are required to attend a weekly session over 12 sessions. Each session includes fun skilled based sports, education sessions, monitoring and individual goal setting.
This is an intervention programme that requires input not only from the young person but their family as well. Previous results have proven that individuals that are supported by their families are more likely to experience more positive changes and results overall. Therefore the parents are asked to attend an hour lifestyle session but can also take part in optional physical activity sessions and monitoring.
The programme is not designed to be a “quick fix” approach but aims to provide information and education to help the young person make lifestyle changes that will help to ensure a healthy future.
Results from the previous clinics show that generally the young people who are more successful in reduction of their body fat percentage and body weight. are those children who are supported by their family by attending the parental lifestyle sessions and making the necessary changes at home in order to aid the behaviour change needed.
Other results from the programme show that children increase in confidence and self esteem and feel fitter to be able to join other sports clubs and activities.
The following quotes are taken from attendees of previous clinics.
“I used to get out of breath from walking, now I don’t”
“My mum took me shopping and I fit clothes 2 sizes smaller”
One parent wrote:
“Our son *** has suffered from continual bullying since he started secondary school. He had lost most of his confidence and was depressed. Since attending the Fun 4 Life clinic the change in him has been wonderful. He has lost weight, gained back his confidence and is smiling and having fun again. Fun 4 Life has done a great job not only in re-educating *** and other children, but also their parents.”
For more information please contact a memeber of the Walsall Active Youth team at Sport and Leisure Development Services on 01902 605500 or e-mail sportsdev@walsall.gov.uk