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She’s one of Australia’s most successful Olympians and now a mother of two, Susie O’Neill, says she understands how difficult it is to balance family life and a healthy lifestyle.
The 40-year-old swimmer from Brisbane says her life changed significantly once she became a parent.
“I went from having a disciplined training and eating schedule to being completely at the mercy of my children’s eating, sleeping and school routine,” she says. “It was a massive change. Throw in other life distractions such as cold winter days or a kid’s birthday party and I need more than just willpower or luck to keep up my healthy habits.”
In a nationwide survey of 1300 Australians conducted by AIA, 30 per cent of mums said that being a parent was a barrier to achieving good health.
“It’s hard to take time out for yourself but it’s important to be a better mum,” says Susie, mum to Alix, 10, and William, 8. “The hardest part is fighting the feelings of guilt, but I try to exercise for an hour every day.
“It is so important that mums look after themselves and have the time and support to do so. Without good health, you cannot look after your family or be a positive role model for them.”
The study also reveals that nearly two-in-three women believe a lack of willpower and half say a lack of enjoyment stop them from exercising, while some women put off physical activity because they worry about how they look.
Susie O’Neill after winning the 200m Freestyle Final at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
“It’s great to have a goal to aim towards,” says Susie. “Entering events like the Noosa Triathlon or fundraising walks help me stay motivated. Don’t be too hard on yourself. If you miss a week, don’t fall off the wagon.”
The eight-time Olympic medallist, who retired in 2000, also says she prefers for her children not to pursue professional sport.
“My children don’t do any formal sport. There’s no routine,” says the AIA Vitality ambassador. “I don’t really want them to be elite sportspeople. It worked for me but it seems like my whole life was swim training.”
