Team GB Olympic weightlifter Emily Campbell has launched the “Make Britain Stronger” campaign, aiming to encourage the nation to incorporate strength training into their weekly routines.
Speaking at the Active Uprising conference on 6 March at the QEII Centre in Westminster, Campbell emphasised the importance of strength training for overall health. She highlighted that such exercises are accessible to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Campbell’s advocacy aligns with the Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines, which recommend adults engage in strength exercises at least two days a week.
“Strength training isn’t just about how much you can lift,” Campbell remarked. “It can be hugely beneficial to prevent injury, reduce the risk of pain and illness, and even help us to build confidence and mental resilience.”
Strength training as a cornerstone of public health
Campbell’s campaign is built on three key pillars:
- Increasing participation in lifting weights and highlighting the importance of strength.
- Empowering female body confidence.
- Developing children and young people.
These pillars reflect her broader vision of making strength training a regular part of daily life across communities.
Engaging the health and fitness sector
At the Active Uprising conference, Campbell addressed an audience of 500 health experts, physical activity leaders, and policymakers. She called for collaboration between the government, NHS, and the sport and physical activity sector to promote strength training nationwide.
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, expressed support for Campbell’s initiative, stating: “Emily has been a champion for Team GB, and now she is also a champion for the nation’s health, with such an important message about the value of strength exercises in our daily lives.”
Addressing national health challenges
Research indicates that strength training can significantly reduce the risk of musculoskeletal conditions, falls, and fractures, which impose substantial costs on the NHS and the economy. Fractures due to falls cost the NHS £4.4 billion annually, with hospital treatments for falls estimated at £630 million each year.
Beyond physical benefits, strength training has been associated with reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms, improved energy levels, better sleep quality, and enhanced self-esteem across various age groups.
A personal mission
Campbell’s journey from her upbringing in Nottingham to the Olympic podium has shaped her commitment to community health. She plans to open her own weightlifting gym, aiming to influence and set high standards for new gyms that incorporate elite athlete-level facilities, youth development areas, community-led projects, and financial accessibility for the community.
“My greatest challenge is to leave a legacy that makes strength training part of everyday life for people from all communities,” Campbell shared. “Strength training can really make every one of us feel incredible, and I’m committed to helping as many people as possible unlock their full potential.”
The “Make Britain Stronger” campaign seeks to transform the nation’s approach to health by integrating strength training into daily routines. Through collaboration with health professionals, policymakers, and community leaders, Campbell aims to create a stronger, healthier Britain for all.
