Olympic skateboarder Lola Tambling wants to inspire young athletes

Four in ten children in the UK are missing out on experiencing new sports, with the cost of equipment and a shortage of facilities cited as major barriers. A survey of 1,000 children aged five to 16 revealed that 37% have expressed a desire to try a sport or physical activity but have been unable to do so. Parents who participated in the study pointed to a lack of nearby facilities as the biggest obstacle, followed by the overall cost of activities (39%) and their child’s lack of confidence (32%).

Physical Education (PE) at school remains the most common opportunity for kids to stay active, with 54% stating it’s where they exercise most frequently. However, for some, enthusiasm is lacking—38% of children admitted they’re not interested in most sports, while 9% said they participate only “because they have to.”

In a bid to tackle these challenges, Olympic skateboarder and teenage sensation Lola Tambling has partnered with Weetabix, which commissioned the survey, to inspire children to step outside their comfort zones and try new sports. Speaking at an event at BaySixty6 Skatepark in Notting Hill, London, the 17-year-old shared skateboarding tips with fans and budding skaters.

Tambling, who credited skateboarding with transforming her own life, said: “Trying something new can be scary, but it’s also the first step towards discovering what you’re passionate about,” adding, “I want other kids to find their thing too.”

The research revealed that family (57%), friends (53%), and teachers (35%) are key influences in motivating children to get active. One in five children said they are more likely to participate in team sports, preferring the group dynamic to individual activities.

Walking—whether to school or with the family dog—emerged as one of the top forms of exercise, alongside football, swimming (37%), playground activities (34%), and cycling (24%).

Attendees at the skateboarding event also got to sample the latest Weetabix Crispy Minis flavour at their “Bix Breakfast Bar,” encouraging healthy habits alongside physical activity.

Emily Hill, a spokesperson for Weetabix, praised Tambling’s passion for inspiring the next generation. She said: “When you listen to Lola talk about what skateboarding has given her outside the bowl, it makes you realise how significant the impact of enhancing participation in sport can be to youngsters, whatever sport that may be.

“That’s why we want to encourage the next generation to try new activities that might help them find a new hobby or passion.”