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Lorna’s walking story

“Walking means everything to me. It saved me when I was widowed.”

A group of people walk through a field. They are laughing together. They're wearing walking clothing.

Lorna’s walking journey began when she was widowed in 2016. With 2 young sons at home, walking was a way for Lorna to prioritise her own wellbeing.

In the 10 years since, she’s explored local routes and walks further afield, improved her fitness and made new connections.

Starting with short, local walks allowed Lorna to build her fitness in a way that felt accessible. Lorna shows how walking can be built into our everyday routines; a walk to the shops or grabbing a coffee with a friend all count.

“Walking is the best and easiest way to start a fitness and wellness journey.“

During the pandemic, Lorna decided to start a Facebook group for people in East Dunbartonshire to share walking routes. The goal was to bring people together in a time of hardship. Lorna’s dad was an avid walker, so she shared areas that she had heard him talk about.

Walking brought new people into Lorna’s life, who she now calls friends. By introducing people to routes that they never knew existed, to learning about new local spots from others, walking provided connection and community.

“Starting small, even a short 15-minute stroll has huge benefits and like me you never know where it could lead. Be careful though, it could be life changing!“

Now with around 50 volunteers, the group has grown into a constituted community group that offers an average of 10 events a week. From Strength and Balance classes to local accessible walks, the events cater for all members of the community.

For Lorna, walking was about taking small, consistent changes to her lifestyle that prioritised her fitness and wellbeing. The fact that she found a passion for walking along the way was a bonus.