Ashkiren’s family first learned about the LiveIT initiative, ran in partnership with Livewell Derby, after her father attended some of Livewell’s adult sessions. Knowing that they were struggling to motivate Ashkiren to take part in physical activity, they thought the project might provide the perfect opportunity.

With a busy family already, both parents working full-time left little time for additional activities and time together was often spent relaxing rather than getting active. However, after realising that Ashkiren’s activity levels were too low, her mother Virender got in touch with our Live IT team.

“I could see some bad habits creeping in that I wanted to nip in the bud. She had so little energy, I couldn’t interest her in taking part in any activities and I didn’t want her weight to become a barrier to taking part. We all have a huge love for food, but I know it’s all about balance.”

Following an initial meeting with the team, Ashkiren began attending sessions in 2019. Despite much of the last year taking place virtually, she continued to join in sessions every week and really enjoyed them, as well as enjoying the chance to catch up with other children she had met in the sessions.

“Live IT was the catalyst to Ashi getting involved in physical activity. Now, it’s constant! We attend these sessions on Mondays, kickboxing on Tuesdays and Thursdays, netball on Fridays and swimming at the weekends. Before we attended Live IT, she wasn’t interested in even a single after school club.”

Alongside the physical activity sessions, Live IT encourages learning and understanding of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Sessions comprise of both elements each week.

Virender added: “Along with increasing physical activity, she has learned that to eat ‘treats’ you should do some activity first. It’s just helped her understanding of a balanced diet and I can see her putting into action every day.

“If anyone is worried about sending their children to the sessions if they are a little worried about their habits or weight, then don’t be! Looking after your physical and mental health is paramount for young people. It’s taken her away from the screen and has increased her confidence hugely.”

Live IT supports children and young people aged 5-17, through interactive groups sessions (under 12s) and personal training for those aged 12+.

Live IT