The popular walking initiative ‘Ireland Light Up’ will return on Wednesday 10th January 2024 in partnership with Operation Transformation and Get Ireland Walking. ‘Ireland Light Up’ is gaining momentum every year and in 2023 he hopes over 1,000 clubs will have completed the initiative.
The GAA is once again encouraging clubs to come together and provide communities with a safe place to enjoy the benefits of walking during the winter months. ‘Ireland Lights Up’ is a great opportunity for clubs to engage with their local communities, as well as providing a platform for clubs to advocate for the positive impact that regular exercise has on our physical and mental health. Offers.
Irish Life’s ‘Every Steps Counts Challenge’, in partnership with the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs program and delivered via the ‘MyLife’ app, will also return on Monday 8 January 2024. In 2023, 29,600 participants walked more than 5,500,000 kilometers during his 5-week challenge. This year Irish Life will donate his €30,000* in club funds towards his 2024 challenge and all clubs that reach the 4,000km target will be entered into a prize draw. He has three prizes of 2,500 euros per state.
Southeast University of Technology (SETU) the study
To assess the impact of community-based physical activity initiatives on the health, wellbeing and social cohesion of participants, South East University of Technology (SETU) recently completed a comprehensive four-year study led by postdoctoral researcher Nicola Briggs. published their research. The initiative, supported by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), focuses on the ‘Light Up Ireland’ initiative, encouraging GAA clubs to light up their pitches and organize weekly walks throughout the winter. There is.
Although ILU has become very popular, little research has been conducted to understand its underlying mechanisms of success or how it may benefit individuals. Over the next four years, the SETU research team aims to fill this knowledge gap, uncover the effectiveness of ILU, and provide valuable insights for community-based health and wellbeing initiatives.
The main objectives of the study are:
• Measure the effectiveness of ILU implementation across GAA clubs.
• Assess the impact of ILU on health and well-being.
• Create a blueprint for a community-based approach.
Research Doctor Nicola Briggs expressed enthusiasm about the project, saying: “Our aim is not only to improve ILU, but also to make local communities healthier and stronger, supporting people facing challenges. “We look forward to sharing our findings and contributing.” We will contribute to the promotion of community-based initiatives. ”
Registration is easy and clubs can sign up to Ireland Light Up and Irish Life’s ‘Every Steps Counts Challenge’. here The next day, you’ll receive a welcome pack containing promotional materials, signage, and resources to ensure your event is a success.