This infographic made me stop in my tracks

Over the past week or more, I've been reflecting on the idea of evolution and change.

Taking the time to really zoom into the parts and zoom out to see the big picture.

Change, although not always by choice (i.e., 2020-21 anyone?), can be unsettling and exhilarating all at the same time.

Take for example, the change of parenthood. All of a sudden there is this human being who you are responsible for.

Can you prepare for the change?

Somewhat.

Can you be flying by the seat of your pants?

Absolutely!

When I zoom in even further, I am reminded that as a mother for over 10 years now, I have seen so much change.

Later on this month, I'm teaching a workshop on motherhood and group exercise. My presentation is laser focused on the things I know - the exercise physiology and anatomy of the moving mother. However I am also drawn to speak beyond the biological factors and bring to the workshop the psychological and sociological influences of mothers being physically active.

The components of biology, psychology and sociology combined make up the Biopsychosocial Model. Now I'm not expert on all three aspects of the framework, yet it is intriguing to keep them in perspective. It is very interesting to explore how these three components are all intertwined in a zoomed in perspective.

​Taking a zoomed out approach to motherhood, it allows us to see the bigger picture of the evolution of physical activity for women.

Although on paper when looking at physical activity statistics, we can see adherence numbers fall at certain times in a female's life. Notability at puberty, entering post-secondary education, starting a career, pregnancy and motherhood, menopause, retirement, and caring for loves ones. I've seen and hear it from many women over my 22+ year career.

This infographic from the Canadian Women and Sport, can show it much better than the written word. When I first saw this infographic, I stopped in my tracks. Stop and take a look at the ever changing terrain of physical activity for women.

This email could take you a day to read if we explored all the zoomed out twists and turns of women's physical activity journey.

But one thing is certain. It is change.

Life can change your physical activity, physical activity can change your life.

If you are intrigued, I invite you to consider joining me on Thursday February 17 where I will expand on the context of motherhood and group exercise. It is going to be fun!

Stay well and happy moving,

Lisa 💗