Walk & Talk

forthcoming

The Walk & Talk (WAT) project addresses the critical issue of physical inactivity among young women and girls, as well as the rising mental health challenges linked to negative body image and low self-esteem. The project aims to encourage greater participation in physical activity, focusing on Nordic walking as a cost-effective, inclusive, and accessible sport. By promoting its benefits for physical and mental well-being, the project aspires to foster a supportive community while enhancing awareness of the relationship between exercise, self-confidence, and health. Key objectives of the project include introducing Nordic walking as a healthy and enjoyable activity, building communities of women and girls who practice it regularly, and highlighting its positive impacts on well-being. Additional goals involve integrating eco-friendly practices, such as plalking (picking up litter while walking) and organizing nature clean-up activities, alongside creating opportunities to discover and promote cultural and historical landmarks in each participating country. Key activities planned within the WAT project include local Nordic walking events combined with non-formal education practices, a clean-up initiative for World Cleanup Day engaging 120 participants, and an international mobility event to train 15 sports instructors, trainers, youth workers, and teachers in Nordic walking methodologies. These efforts will culminate in the creation of the Walk & Talk Handbook, a comprehensive resource including outdoor itineraries, non-formal education activities, and eco-friendly tips, aimed at professionals and individuals seeking to adopt and sustain physical activity in nature. Through this initiative, the WAT project not only promotes healthier lifestyles but also emphasizes the social, environmental, and cultural dimensions of outdoor sports, fostering a sense of community and well-being for young women and girls across Europe.