What happens when three Nordic Walking groups from different parts of Scotland decide to spend a day walking together?
A lot of miles. Plenty of conversation. A few new friendships. And one very memorable day in Blair Atholl.
Back in December, instructors Gillian and Eilidh started exchanging emails about a simple idea. Why not bring their groups together for a shared walk in a new place?
Fast forward a few months, and that idea became reality.
Walkers travelled from Ayrshire, Perthshire and Falkirk to meet in the heart of Scotland. Some had been Nordic Walking for more than six years. Others had learned the technique only days before. In total, 27 walkers came together for a day of movement, fresh air and good company.
For Gillian's group, it meant a 120-mile journey and more than two hours on the road each way. A sign of just how much people value the opportunity to explore somewhere different and spend time with fellow Nordic walkers.
The day was expertly organised by the instructors, with Eilidh leading the warm-up and Gillian guiding the cool-down. Along the route, there were reminders about sunscreen, water, and looking after each other, helping everyone enjoy the day safely.
What stood out most, though, wasn't the planning, the distance travelled, or even the spectacular scenery.
It was the people.
One of the joys of Nordic Walking is how quickly conversations start. Before long, walkers were sharing stories, swapping experiences, comparing favourite routes and talking about future adventures. By lunchtime, it was hard to tell who had arrived together and who had only met a few hours earlier.
One photograph from the day captures it perfectly. Four walkers sitting together after lunch, chatting away against the backdrop of the Perthshire hills. Two from Gillian's group. Two from Eilidh's. Strangers that morning. Looking like old friends by the afternoon.
The feedback afterwards was enthusiastic. Walkers loved exploring new places, meeting fellow Nordic walkers, and spending time outdoors with people who share the same passion.
As British Nordic Walking instructors know, the poles might bring people together in the first place, but it is often the friendships, laughter and shared experiences that keep them coming back.
A huge thank you to Eilidh Paterson, Gillian from Gillian's Walks, Arlene Bowmaker and everyone who helped make the day such a success.
We can't wait to see where the next adventure takes them.
You can find their Nordic Walking groups or one near you here: https://britishnordicwalking.org.uk/pages/find-your-nearest-nordic-walk