June 24, 2021

Arie Boomsma: 'Sadness doesn't exist during exercise'

Arie Boomsma is a television presenter, gym owner, and father of three. He believes sports and exercise are important for children and young people, especially for children who are struggling at home. "During exercise, sadness disappears for a moment; worries and fears don't control your life for a moment."

"Sports, or actually just exercise, is an anchor in my day," says Arie. "It creates a rhythm in my schedule. It gives me the energy to keep up with my children and live life to the fullest. It keeps me more optimistic, more resilient, and physically and mentally strong. But perhaps most importantly, I enjoy it immensely. That was the case even as a child. I have three brothers and a sister who came along a little later. At home, we were always climbing, clambering, playing, running, and jumping. My parents weren't well off. In elementary school, we had to choose between sports and music. I chose soccer. In the first year of high school, I started playing basketball. That sport is still my favorite, even though I haven't played it myself for a long time."

Arie had every opportunity at home, but he had to work for it. “My parents supported my choices. But I had to make something of it myself. When I wanted to go to high school in America at sixteen, I had to pay for it myself. After school, I cleaned the cafeteria, the library, and the restrooms to pay for that year. Later, I got a scholarship to study and play basketball at college.”

Sport is essential to his life. What does it bring him, besides the physical benefits? "We live in a time of constant shuffle, constantly switching between everything," says Arie. "Sport is perhaps the only place in our society where you still learn how to persevere, set goals, and work hard for them, sometimes through setbacks and disappointments. Besides, good health is your shield against viruses like COVID. And sport is an international language that allows you to connect with others, regardless of background, age, appearance, or gender."

Sports keep you physically and mentally strong

"For children struggling at home, sports and exercise can provide relief," Arie believes. "Sports are a wonderful outlet. They let off some steam. During sports, sadness fades away, worries and fears don't control your life for a moment. Moreover, exercise releases substances in your body that help you be more positive and cope with unpleasant situations. It keeps you mentally and physically strong, and often brings you into contact with peers."

Arie has two gyms. Can gyms and cultural providers do something to lower the threshold for families with little money? You guys are doing fantastic work, and it's wonderful that the fund exists. But indeed, providers can also do all sorts of things to make sports and culture (even) more accessible. At my company, Vondelgym, we do this, for example, by allowing children with a city pass to participate in boxing, CrossFit, and boot camp classes for free. And we occasionally organize events where young people are welcome to try out different sports. Collaborating with schools can also be beneficial for associations, clubs, and organizations. And don't forget social media. Make what you do visible, show how much fun sports and games can be!