- Written by Liz Copper & Susie Luck
- BBC News, West Midlands
Sylwia Juranek started walking and losing weight to overcome depression
A free family fitness group has been set up by a mother who took up exercise to help her mental health.
Sylwia Juranek, 38, was inspired to start Active Stars at George Rose Park in Darlaston after overcoming obesity and depression through walking with her son.
A Wednesbury mum wants other families to enjoy the benefits of being more active.
“I want my children to grow up in healthy families,” he said.
“We understand how important it is to get outside, get some fresh air and live a healthy lifestyle.”
Parent Connor said he enjoyed exercising at the park with his daughter.
Juranek, a single mother and director of the community interest group Reach for a Star, found that her son also benefited from the time they spent exercising together.
“He would jump on his bike or scooter and I would just walk behind him and start walking really fast,” she said.
“He started losing weight, he felt better, his grades in school improved, his behavior changed, and our relationship improved.”
When I first started in 2019, I found it difficult to reach 3,000 steps a day, but I pushed myself a little each time and increased my steps to 18,000.
Within three years she lost 28kg (4 stone 5 pounds) and now believes in the power of setting goals.
“We always tell our kids to try a little harder,” she says.
Parent Conor, who attended the session with his daughter Luna, said the group was “fantastic” in terms of fitness and sociability.
“It’s all a variety of kids outside, in nature, all talking and playing and making friends,” he said.
Chantel and her son Archie enjoy some one-on-one exercise
Chantel Hull said she was looking forward to spending quality time with her son Archie, 7.
“It’s made him a little bit braver and more sociable, so he’s started interacting with other kids,” she says.
This session, which promotes health for all ages, takes place every Saturday from 10am to 11am BST.
