Wellbeing Walks in Cornwall: 'It really helps lift my spirits'
National guidance advices that adults should aim for around 150 minutes of moderate activity a week - and a brisk walk counts towards it.
There’s a new push in Cornwall to help older adults stay active and social through free Wellbeing Walks, as new national guidance recommends at least one hundred and fifty minutes of movement a week.
Organised by Active Cornwall in partnership with Ramblers UK and other local organisations, these free sessions are designed for older adults to boost both their mental and physical wellbeing.
Councillor Jim McKenna, Cabinet Member for Adults, explained that Cornwall is part of the Network of Age-Friendly Communities, aiming to keep people active - an essential part of ageing well.
He said: "Keeping people active is one of our key priorities for ageing well.
"Age-friendly communities work together to help people stay active and more connected, which promotes better health and reduces our need for urgent care and treatment."
Supported by guidelines from Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, adults over 65 are encouraged to aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly, with walking as an accessible option.
Cornwall's free wellbeing walks, led by trained volunteers, accommodate all abilities and take place in diverse settings - from coast paths to garden estates to town parks.
Kathryn, a regular attendee at Heligan Gardens’ Wellbeing Walk, shared how participating lifts her spirits and strengthens her community bonds.
"If I’m feeling down I come, because I know have built these friendship groups up and it really helps lift my spirits," she said.
“We see the animals, we see the plants and every week there is something different going on. The people I’m with, they ask how you are, it’s just good to talk.”
Rob Harrison from Active Cornwall added: “There are obviously physical benefits of getting out and being active, but also the social element is massively important.
"You could come to walk on your own, but you go away with friends and have that network and community.”