This article was updated August 2024.
Sunday 29 September is Active Nation Day, an initiative developed in 2012 by Lorna Jane Clarkson, the woman behind the Lorna Jane apparel brand. Active Nation Day is all about celebrating the benefits of staying active and serves as a reminder of how important movement is for our health and wellbeing. Lorna Jane’s dedication to Active Nation Day is part of their mission to inspire Australians and communities around the world to make fitness and wellness a way of life.
We spoke to Lorna Jane to ask what the motivation was behind developing this day, and this is what she told us…
“Australians see themselves as active – we promote our country as a sporting nation and celebrate our outdoor lifestyle. In reality, however, things are a lot different. In 2012 we conducted research with Roy Morgan, which revealed that although 63% of Australians expressed a desire to lose weight, an astonishing 53% of them did no formal exercise in an average three-month period. Monash University’s Obesity and Diabetes Institute (MODI) has also revealed that obesity has overtaken smoking as the leading cause of premature death and illness in Australia. We found these statistics so shocking that we decided to do something, which is how Active Nation Day was born. We want to raise awareness of the importance of putting your health and fitness first. Just as we celebrate love with Valentines Day every year, I believe we should celebrate our health – and inspire people to move, nourish and believe in themselves every day.”
What is Active Nation Day?
Active Nation Day is a global event that focuses on health and movement. Since its beginnings in Brisbane in 2012, this annual celebration has motivated people across 16 countries to embrace physical activity. Every year, on the last Sunday of September, the team behind Lorna Jane invite everyone to don their favourite activewear and participate in any form of movement, showcasing the collective power of staying active. In 2024, it will be on September 29th. The movement has made a significant impact worldwide, encouraging people to prioritise their health and showcasing the power of collective action.
Active Nation Day is designed to be more than just one day—it’s a catalyst for making lasting changes and embracing Lorna Jane’s Active Living philosophy: Move, Nourish, Believe. By using the day as a way to kickstart a renewed commitment to your health by joining a yoga class, taking your dog for a walk, or starting a morning jog – it’s all about celebrating the joy of movement and inspiring others to do the same.
How to get involved in Active Nation Day 2024:
Any form of exercise or physical activity that you enjoy is perfect for celebrating this day. Share your activities on social media with the hashtag #activenationday, invite friends to join you, or organise a local event to engage your community. Over the years, Active Nation Day has greatly increased awareness about the benefits of an active lifestyle and encouraged healthier habits around the globe. Why not make 2024 your year to get involved?
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