#OutdoorTown: Reframing our view of physical activity

#OutdoorTown: Reframing our view of physical activity

Burnley’s #OutdoorTown Vision is on a mission to reframe its residents’ perception of what physical activity is by encouraging people to get outdoors and immerse themselves in the beautiful greenspaces right on our doorstep.

Inspired by the Beat the Street campaign’s success, the #OutdoorTown movement aims to build on that momentum. Beat the Street Burnley 2023 saw over 12,000 people across the borough playfully participate in activities like walking, wheeling, or cycling. They would then swipe beatboxes located at various locations across the town, accumulating points to climb a leaderboard, all in the aid of promoting physical activity and outdoor exploration.

Alexis Turner, Outdoor Activity Coordinator for Burnley Leisure and Culture, and one of the team working on the development of the #OutdoorTown vision explains why Beat the Street was the catalyst that kickstarted this movement. “Beat the Street was something that you could see physically happening across the borough. You’d be driving or walking down the street, and you’d see other people walking and cycling at the beatboxes. It was a simple game that encouraged people to get outside and take part in whatever way worked best for them”.

Starting physical activity can be daunting. Many people struggle to identify suitable activities or find the right support, which can be significant barriers to getting started. However, as Alexis explained, the #OutdoorTown Vision aims to remove those fears by creating an environment where exercise can be tailored to everyone’s needs or preferences.

“We need a culture where everyone and everything is inclusive, and it can just happen organically without too much force or pressure. And we’re hoping that’s what the #OutdoorTown Vision and strategy will achieve.”

What makes the Borough of Burnley unique is the plethora of outdoor spaces it has to offer, from our local parks and canals to places to go for a leisurely stroll. These outdoor hubs have the power to foster strong connections among the community that can have a long-lasting impact. Nevertheless, this is a part of the borough that often goes unnoticed, which is what Alexis hopes the strategy can change.

“One of the things we’re trying to do with #OutdoorTown is just change the narrative a little bit and focus on the positives of the town. We already have amazing green spaces in the heart of our town, including our parks, community gardens, canal, trails, and they are not just places to be active; they are places to learn, grow, and connect with each other.”

But how can you get involved? Alexis says, “Step or wheel out your doorstep, just get outside. We also have a wide range of information right here on our #OutdoorTown website, which is continually developing. We have information about walking and wheeling around town along with lots of activities and opportunities on the events calendar, delivered by different organisations across the borough.”

So, whether you’re looking for an adventurous exploration or an accessible way to enjoy the outdoors, there is something for everyone. From walking and cycling to exploring our green spaces, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of our borough. Let’s work together to create an outdoor environment that welcomes all.

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