On a beautifully crisp morning in Shipley Country Park we got together for the Amber Valley #RunWalkTalk event. The atmosphere was fantastic with laughs and smiles all around, conversations flowing, and stories being shared. It was soon time for movement and groups including an accessible walk, a walking group, a run/walk jeffing group and a run group soon got underway. On returning, there was the opportunity to take part in a Nordic Walking taster session followed by a cuppa and a cake and plenty more conversation. New connections were sparked and existing relationships deepened- proof that movement truly brings people together. Whether it was walking or running side by side, the sense of community was undeniable. The best part? Our exciting plans to make physical activity more accessible for everyone. We are excited to announce more RunWalkTalks are coming soon, with plans already underway! Thank you to everyone who made it so special, let’s keep moving- together!
Accessible Walking Group: We talked to the participants of the accessible walk group. For most of the group, it was their first time attending an event like this. Some participants expressed that they had found it difficult to be active due to illness or disability but that they had decided try getting outside again. With a commentary provided by a local wildlife expert, the walk around Shipley Park began. It was a great way to appreciate nature and the group really took the time to explore things that are often overlooked. The group expressed how “nature makes all the difference” when it comes to being active and that the relaxed and inclusive environment provided them with the support and confidence needed to get moving. A key theme of the conversation was the positive impacts on their mental and physical wellbeing and their surprise at their own ability to get involved in the groups that they had previously thought “aren’t for someone like me”. With our amazing Jog Derbyshire and Walk Derbyshire communities there is a route for everyone to achieve more than they thought was possible!
By Cassie, University Intern for Jog Derbyshire