Many WALX groups celebrated World Parkinson’s Day on 11th April with events designed to promote how effective, empowering and safe total body walking can be for those in need of extra stability when walking.

As those living with Parkinson’s all have different elements they may want to improve – WALX Masters are trained to work with each individual to help them to enjoy walking in a way that works for them. Some join in on quite technical hikes and enjoy striding out whilst others attend mobility and calmness sessions and use the poles daily to boost confidence and stability.

Emma the Instructor from WALX Leamington and Warwick offers a full range of sessions and was delighted when the local Mayor came along to join in and promote her World Parkinson’s event.

Martin and Lisa Christie who run both the Hampstead and Watford clubs, spent the day at the Twickenham Stoop rugby stadium on May 9th. They were showcasing the two WALX pole models and structured training programmes recommended for those living with the condition. It was part of a fantastic Try-athlon day where people could join in lots of great activities in a bid to discover how being active and joining in with others can boost confidence and help with management of symptoms.

Martin and the HQ team are also working to set up 6 new WALX projects specifically for those living with PD – funded by Parkinson’s UK

Watch out for new projects in North Yorks, Hastings, Somerset, Devon, Winchester and Sheffield!

Meanwhile in West Sussex new T shirts were the order of the day as the WALX Coast and Country group celebrated 10 years of walking and poling together.

Congratulations to Denise, Chris and the amazing team of walk leaders who provide daily walks and activities for all levels – from tough total body walking fitness workouts on the seafront to hikes on the south Downs. They even provide indoor exercise sessions via zoom for inclement days or to help people work on strength and balance from home and special sessions in partnership with a local Physiotherapist hope those who need more support with their movement.

This sociable, supportive group work hard to make sure there is something for everyone and they never seem to stop smiling!

Sights and sunshine were the order of the day for Nordic Walking Brockenhurst who enjoyed a great walking holiday in Malta and Gozo.

A great example of how lasting friendships and amazing experiences can grow out of a group that exercises together in the wind, rain and mud!

Not quite as far for the WALX Dorset crew but still a bit of an excursion involving a ferry and train ride!

Led by Instructor Lucie, 16 explorers went on an away day walk to the Isle of Wight where they enjoyed the varied terrain, beaches and history over an 8 mile route planned by regular walker Anne.

The following day a similar number of walkers joined another WALX Dorset Instructor, Sally for a short walk and tea from her home to welcome her back to leading following a shoulder injury!

Sometimes the tables are turned and the group is supporting the Instructor and that’s why it’s so rewarding to be part of a local WALX team.

Nature also adds that special element to any walk and late spring is the time the groups make the most of it. From getting up at Dawn to enjoy International Dawn chorus day (often with a delicious breakfast afterwards) to a trip to the local woods to see the bluebells.

This year was one of the earliest and best Bluebell years we can recall here at HQ in Dorset and the pictures shared by WALXers all over the UK seem to confirm that too

This group from St Albans took time to sit and stare and quite right too. It’s one of those annual spectaculars that bring joy and a fast for the eyes (and the nose! )