Science of Steps! A creative walk through nature revealing the science behind the benefits of a short stroll

What’s on offer?

We all know how hard it can be to be physically active. This creative event we will show how small changes in our daily physical activity can make a difference to our wellbeing and fitness. Together we will learn about Step Count Challenge, a workplace challenge designed to motivate staff to be more active during the working day. We will share our physical activity research while walking a lap of the loch, exploring the beautiful surroundings of University of Stirling campus. During the walk we will create a simple ‘Nature Compass’, designed by artist Alec Finlay. At the end of the walk, we will share more of our research on the Step Count Challenge and you will be rewarded with a goodie bag (first come first served).

What’s it about?

This event encourages people to incorporate short bouts of physical activity during their average day. We want to dispel the myth that engaging in physical activity needs to be rigorous such as going to the gym or running events like marathons. Workplaces can also promote physical activity during the day, and small increases in steps can result in increases in fitness and wellbeing as well as social connections. By participating in this event, you will have an increased sense of confidence about your ability to be active in your daily lives. This will also allow you the opportunity to enjoy the surroundings and learn about the local natural environment.

Who’s leading the event?

Gozde Ozakinci, Professor of psychology, University of Stirling

James Ainge, Professor of psychology and neuroscience, University of St Andrews

Sam Warne, Postdoctoral Fellow, University of St Andrews.

Carl Greenwood and Sarah Turner from Paths for All (https://www.pathsforall.org.uk/)

Alec Finlay, artist-in-residence for Paths for All (https://www.alecfinlay.com/)

Open to

Anyone is welcome. The Pathfoot building and the loch walk are accessible to those who use wheelchairs and parents with buggies.

Of particular interest to

This might be of particular interest to:

• those who wish to increase their own or their family’s activity levels but not sure where to start.
• those who work in human resources of local businesses who aim to increase wellbeing among their employees.
• People who wish to get to know university campus.
• Those who wish to be creative in nature

Event Booking details

Although we wish for the attendees to book, they can also drop-in.

Event booking deadline

11 am Friday 11 October 2024

Event information

The event is part of the Festival of Social Science, organised by the University of Stirling. See other events in the programme, running between 19 October and 7 November 2024.

It is supported by the Stirling Social Science Impact Acceleration Account (IAA) which promotes the social science research collaborations with partners and communities. UK-wide Festival of Social Science 2024 and was made possible thanks to funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), which is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).