Santé is a co-sponsor of Team Continu, the skating team led by Marianne Timmer. Today, Marianne shares personal stories from her childhood.
Marianne: 'In high school, almost everyone went "on a moped." My parents allowed me to get one, but I politely declined. I preferred cycling—it felt like training, and I enjoyed it more.'
Even in school, I was instinctively focused on my health. I chose yogurt or milk over Coke. Today, kids face tougher choices with vending machines everywhere stocked with chips, biscuits, chocolate, and licorice. Call me old-fashioned, but why not an apple?
I noticed classmates snacking heavily during breaks—emptying vending machines of chips, chocolate, and cola. Tempting as it was, I steered clear. As part of Jong Oranje, I was more body-aware than most peers, and at home, treats were saved for special occasions.
After learning to skate playfully and showing talent in club competitions, I got an invitation to train with the regional team under Inko de Vries. What an honor. Suddenly, I truly belonged, and the world opened up.'
Missed a tip? Read all the tips from Marianne Timmer.
