Janet Gibson from Cardigan joined the West Wales Walking for Wellbeing group in May 2021 when restricions eased in Ceredigion. As a member, she tells us the benefits of walking on her physical and mental wellbeing.
When and why did you join the group?
I joined the Wellbeing Walks in May and participated in the very first walk. I joined because I was so looking forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and to exercise together in the fresh air after months of online classes.
How does walking make you feel and how do you feel afterwards?
Walking makes me feel so much fitter. The overall benefit is both physical and mental. When I return home after my walk, I switch on the kettle and synchronise my FitBit to see how well I have done. I was overjoyed to see how many steps and active minutes I had completed. It was very uplifting.
What do you get from being part of the Walking for Wellbeing group?
For me personally I love to walk within a group. I enjoy the camaraderie and the support. The benefits I gain are the exercise, the wellbeing from enjoying a beautiful walk, and the improvement in my strength and pace. The group members and guides are very welcoming. It was really quite emotional for us all as we were reunited through our common goal to keep active.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining?
To anyone who is thinking of joining I would encourage them to come along in their comfy walking shoes, and meet other like-minded people. We all share a common goal to improve our fitness but to enjoy companionship too. Everyone has spent far too long separated from one another, but this walking group promotes wellbeing, and what better way than a beautiful country walk.
West Wales Walking for Wellbeing offers free and friendly group walks, in your local community. The walks range between 30 and 60 minutes and every member must comply with covid-19 guidelines.
For more information and to book onto a walk, visit the West Wales Walking for Wellbeing website: https://www.westwaleswalkingforwellbeing.org.uk or contact Dawn Forster
Project Co-ordinator for Ceredigion at dawn.forster@Ceredigion.gov.uk / 07866 985753.
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