Former Love Island stars Alex and Olivia Bowen have opened up about the joys and challenges of raising their two young children, describing parenthood as something that "gets better every day". The couple, who found love on the ITV reality show in 2016, are parents to three-and-a-half-year-old Abel and three-month-old baby Siena.
The 'Golden' Children and Parenting Reality
While admitting that managing a toddler and a newborn is "hard work", the pair are clearly smitten. "It's a difficult job," says Olivia, 31, before affectionately noting her daughter's smiles during the interview. She emphasises that the tough moments are outweighed by the precious ones, stating that seeing their children's faces makes "every minute" worthwhile.
Alex, 34, agrees, acknowledging the logistical challenges when Abel is energetic and they are juggling household tasks. However, he echoes his wife's sentiment, highlighting how the children's happy expressions and cute actions brighten each day.
The couple consider themselves fortunate with their children's temperaments. Alex proudly describes baby Siena as "absolutely golden", praising her sleep patterns and happy nature. He notes that while their son Abel found the transition to being a big brother a challenge at three years old, he too has adapted brilliantly.
Championing Family Fitness with Let's Move!
Their shared passion for fitness has led them to support a major government initiative. The Bowens are championing the Department for Culture, Media and Sport's Let's Move! campaign, which is backed by Sport England and figures like Joe Wicks and Max Whitlock.
The campaign aims to help parents find easy, fun ways to incorporate movement into daily family life, starting with short, 10-minute bursts of activity. Olivia finds this approach particularly useful post-pregnancy, while Alex, a fitness coach, looks forward to being active with both children as they grow.
Olivia's own return to fitness has been a gradual process following the birth of Siena three months ago, which involved an emergency Caesarean section, a haemorrhage, and two blood transfusions after losing three litres of blood. "The recovery has been quite difficult," she admits, but she is now incorporating gym sessions, run-walks, and the campaign's short activities with her kids.
Integrating Activity into Everyday Life
The couple are keen to promote accessible ways for all families to get moving. Pointing to Sport England research showing over half of children don't achieve the recommended 60 minutes of daily activity, they stress the importance of simple solutions.
"It's just about trying to teach parents and their kids how to get active in easy and accessible ways," Olivia explains, suggesting games in the garden or living room. Alex adds that you don't need special equipment, just everyday household items.
With lively Abel, they turn his energy into games like hide-and-seek, throwing teddies into a bucket, or dancing. Alex highlights a key benefit: "It gives you an excuse to play with your kids, and that can increase the bond with them."
Despite their clear love for family life, the Bowens are firm that their family is now complete. When asked about having more children, Olivia decisively says "No!", with Alex immediately and emphatically agreeing.
Alex and Olivia Bowen are supporting the Let's Move! campaign, helping parents discover simple, fun, and pressure-free ways to build movement into daily family life.
