Varala Sports Institute launches Vomp & Friends activity center in Tampere to address childhood inactivity

In Tampere, a significant initiative has been launched to combat childhood inactivity at the Varala Sports Institute. The facility recently inaugurated the Vomp & Friends activity center for children aged 5 to 10, offering monthly memberships. Unlike traditional sports activities for children, this center operates similarly to adult gyms, allowing parents to schedule sessions that suit their children’s availability.

The institute aims to specifically engage children who are not currently involved in organized sports. Childhood inactivity has become a major concern; a recent study highlighted that only about one-third of children and adolescents met recommended activity levels in 2022, with girls being less active than boys.

Riku Granat, the CEO of Varala Sports Institute, expressed his frustration with the prevailing focus on the problems without offering solutions. He emphasized the institute’s commitment to contributing positively to resolving this issue.

The new center represents a considerable investment, amounting to hundreds of thousands of euros, and staff have been hired for its operation. Granat indicated that if the initiative succeeds, additional centers could be opened in the future.

The Vomp center uniquely combines play, physical activity, art, and science, featuring immersive environments like space to motivate children to move. Project leader Laura Karintaus noted that the aim is not to dictate how to move, but rather to celebrate the diverse ways children can be active.

However, some experts argue that such initiatives should not replace natural play and movement in children’s everyday lives. They believe that fostering active habits should start through spontaneous play and movement in their surroundings, which are currently lacking in support due to increased urbanization.