An Australian first study at the University of Newcastle will examine how mums can help their daughters to get more active by becoming more active themselves.
MADE (Mothers And Daughters Exercising) 4 Life is a program designed to increase physical activity participation, fitness and health in both mothers and daughters by developing physical activity skills and confidence through fun activities performed together.
“Previous studies have found that girls are less active than boys and women less active than men. We also know how important the mother is as a role model for her daughter, and this influence extends to the lifestyle a mother leads,” lead researcher Alyce Cook said.
“There have been no Australian studies that focus on the mother-daughter combination to increase physical activity levels in the family. This research will test if the MADE 4 LIFE program is successful in improving the physical activity behaviours of mothers and daughters.”
The after school community-based program will include a one and a half hour session per week over eight weeks. Researchers are inviting volunteers to participate in the study.
The study will:
• include the latest evidence and research about how active girls should be and strategies to increase their physical activity levels
• include innovative ideas to help mums and their daughters have fun being active and getting fit together
• allow mums and daughters to participate together in fun physical activity sessions including zumba, pilates, fun games, and resistance circuits.
“It is important that parents and carers are armed with the appropriate knowledge and skills to teach their children about health. This study will examine whether a fun program made specifically for mothers and daughters helps them to become more active together.”
MADE 4 Life joint researchers include Professor Philip Morgan, Professor Clare Collins and Professor Ron Plotnikoff from the Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition from the University of Newcastle.
Newcastle and Hunter families interested in participating in the study can contact Alyce Cook on 02 4921 6566 or email Alyce.Cook@newcastle.edu.au.
Interview and photo opportunity: Alyce Cook is available for interview on 02 4921 6566 or 0409 075 779. A mother and daughter are available for a photo opportunity on request.
