NS Walks: Free walking program that helps Nova Scotians move more
NS Walks is a free, weekly walking program that brings people together in communities across Nova Scotia. Its goal is to increase opportunities for less-active people to enjoy the benefits of walking by providing social support. Walk leaders ensure the routes chosen are accessible and open to people of all mobility levels. Hike Nova Scotia provides free virtual training for people anywhere in Nova Scotia who want to lead an NS Walks group. No matter where you are in the province, there is likely a group near you – or one coming soon.
Kathy Dodds, of Pictou Landing, and Gill Atwood, of New Glasgow, have been leading an NS Walks group together in Trenton since October 2021. They met through their NS Walks online training and became fast friends. Gill says, “I was willing to lead walks solo, but am thrilled to co-lead. There are so many advantages to having two leaders and working as a team.”
Gill has always enjoyed walking and volunteering in her community. The opportunity to become a walk leader was a natural fit for her. She says, “It’s a win-win.” Similarly, Kathy saw the need for mental health supports in her community during the COVID-19 pandemic and knew that spending time outdoors was important for everyone’s well-being. Gill says, “Helping others to become more active and socially engaged makes me feel it’s a weekly hour well-spent – we all feel better for it!”
The Trenton group is open to all ages and continues to meet weekly over the winter. Getting outside and breathing fresh air is important year-round. “Winter is a beautiful time,” says Kathy. “I appreciate the quality of light, the air, the snow and ice. The park we use in Trenton for our walks is lovely; the icy brook, the pond, hemlock forests and bird life provide us variety and the beautiful aspects of nature.”
Organizing a winter walk does require a bit more planning. Though Gill and Kathy make sure the trails they take are free of hazards, and on flat, easy surfaces, ice can be a bit tricky. One good tool to have is a set of ice grippers for your shoes. Kathy says she has been impressed with the group’s willingness and enthusiasm to continue with being outdoors, even when the weather is a bit challenging. “People long to be outside, in nature, especially during these difficult times,” she says.
Connecting with other people is as vital to our health as connecting with nature. Joining an NS Walks group is about more than just getting outside and getting active – it also brings people together. Not only did NS Walks training bring Kathy and Gill into each other’s lives, but their group has also connected community members. Kathy says, “Some people did know each other beforehand, however many did not. I have heard from walkers that they are enjoying the opportunity to meet new people in this way.”
Having a weekly date for the group to meet is good motivation, especially on days when you might want to just stay home. Reflecting on the benefits of NS Walks, Kathy says, “Membership is contagious and communicates that our walks are fun and helpful to the community. On a societal scale, anything we can do to encourage people’s health and well-being strengthens us all.”
To learn more about joining an NS Walks group or becoming a walk leader, visit www.nswalks.ca.