
Meet the Walkers: Kirsty
We ask walkers who have taken part in the Step Count Challenge why they decided to take part and what walking means to them.
Kirsty from The Stepsisters at Rashielee Care Home tells us about her love of walking and how it provides an opportunity to challenge ourselves whilst restoring some inner balance and immersing ourselves in our surroundings.
I love walking, being outside in nature. Covid-19 has taught me to appreciate walking all the more and has lead me to discover new routes. These routes have challenged both my confidence and my fitness. Walking in the dark, I have conquered my fears. Walking up hills, I have challenged my fitness. Walking to and from work during the height of the covid-19 pandemic, I have regained my inner balance.
I prefer walking alone, lost not in direction, but in my own thoughts. Alone, I am free to admire the reflections in puddles, watch the sun rise over Glasgow from high on the bridge or pause to allow deer to cross my path.
As the days have grown darker, I have started to walk at day break, acknowledging the sunrise before heading to work. After work, I return to the darkness, walking home accompanied by the stars - I have never found them so fascinating. My weekends are for more challenging walks, in length or terrain, discovering new places close to home.
I asked my fellow workmates to take part this year to boost their morale, improve their fitness and encourage teamwork. Five teams entered including my own, the competition is on! My own team, The Stepsisters, have great banter and we encourage each other to improve our steps each day.
I hope that the Step Count Challenge inspires people to get fitter and to get outdoors. There is so much to see, even in your own patch!