In a recent exclusive interview with HELLO!, former professional footballer Fara Williams shared her journey with exercise and how the competitive nature of sports impacted her relationship with staying active. As the most capped Lioness player of all time, Fara revealed that while she loved playing outside and being active as a child, her time as a professional athlete made fitness feel like a chore.
Fara admitted that the pressure to constantly prove herself and compare her performance to others took away the joy of exercising. However, since retiring from football and exercising at her own pace, she has rediscovered her love for fitness. Fara now runs 10KM every morning and enjoys the process without the pressure of competition.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Fara believes that the competitive element in childhood sports can deter young people from staying active. The fear of failure or not being as good as others can create a mental barrier that sticks with us into adulthood. Fara emphasizes the importance of reframing exercise for children and making it fun rather than a chore. She has teamed up with Nuffield Health on their Move Together campaign to encourage young girls to find joy in movement through free weekly fitness classes.
Ultimately, Fara's story serves as a reminder that exercise should be a source of pleasure and self-care, rather than a means of comparison or competition. By removing the competitive mindset and focusing on personal well-being, individuals can build a healthier relationship with staying active and lead a more fulfilling lifestyle.