National Fitness Day: Working Out to Work Through Conflicts
It's National Fitness Day on Wednesday, 16 September. Ahead of it, we look at the connection between movement, emotions and family relationships.
When you think about ‘fitness’, what do you imagine? A gym? Hench men huffing and puffing on the rowing machine? Perhaps your mind’s eye sees a crowd of people on a park run. Either way, lycra is bound to be involved.
Fitness, however, is about more than mere cardio. Exercise can support our emotional wellbeing, strengthen relationships and help families navigate conflict in healthier ways.
As we mark National Fitness Day (Wednesday, 16 September), it is worth reflecting on the connection between movement, emotions and family relationships.
The Link Between Fitness and Conflict
How you feeling right now? Stressed, overwhelmed, frustrated? Then you already know how hard it can be to make yourself understood, listen or speak calmly during disagreements when you’re tired.
Recommending physical activity in this context might sound counter-intuitive – I’m tired and you’re telling me to go for a run? – but stick with me. Regular physical activity can help us manage stress, regulate emotions and improve overall wellbeing. Whether it’s playing football in the park, swimming, cycling, going to the gym or even having a brisk walk, movement gives our brains and bodies an opportunity to release tension and reset. Nor does it have to be too formal: walking the dog or dancing in your living room can work just as well.
Fitness also provides something else that families often need during difficult times: space. Space to think. Space to breathe. Space to step back before reacting. Things getting tense in the house? Pull on the trainers and go for a run; it’ll give everyone a breather before things can escalate.
Moving Together Matters
Fitness can be particularly powerful when families do it together.
Shared activities create opportunities for connection without the pressure of sitting down for a serious conversation. Walking side by side can often feel easier than talking face to face. Kicking a ball about or playing tag together can create moments of laughter that strengthen relationships and build positive memories.
Research consistently shows that strong relationships are built through everyday interactions. Spending time together doing physical activities helps families reconnect, particularly during periods when tensions may be high.
This is one reason why SCCR has long been interested in approaches that bring families together through shared experiences. In 2024, our Big Family Event included activities such as family yoga sessions because we recognise that healthy relationships are supported when families spend meaningful time together. (We’re holding another Big Family Event at Dynamic Earth on Saturday, 21 November – click here for more details and to reserve a place).
A Challenge for National Fitness Day
This National Fitness Day, why not think of fitness as more than exercise?
Take a family walk. Kick a ball around in the garden. Go for a bike ride. Most importantly, use the time to connect.
Because stronger bodies can support calmer minds, and calmer minds can help us build stronger relationships.
If your family is experiencing conflict, you are not alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Our website offers a wide range of free resources, training sessions and events for young people, parents, carers and professionals.
