‘Ireland Lights Up’, the popular walking initiative, is returning on Wednesday January 10th, 2024, in partnership with Operation Transformation, and Get Ireland Walking. ‘Ireland Lights Up’ goes from strength to strength every year with over 1,000 clubs completing the initiative in 2023.

The GAA are again encouraging clubs to come together and provide a safe space for communities to embrace the benefits of walking during the winter months. ‘Ireland Lights Up’ is an excellent opportunity for clubs to engage with their local communities while providing a platform for clubs to advocate for the positive impacts of regular exercise on our physical and mental health.

The Irish Life ‘Every Steps Counts Challenge’ delivered through the ‘MyLife’ app, in partnership with the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs programme also returns Monday January 8th, 2024. In 2023, 29,600 participants walked over 5,500,000 kms during the five-week challenge. This year Irish Life are giving away €30,000* in club funding for the 2024 challenge and all clubs who achieve the 4,000km target will be entered into a draw. There are three prizes of €2,500 to give away per province.

South East Technological University (SETU) Research

In order to assess the impact of community-based physical activity initiatives on the health, wellbeing, and social cohesion of participants, South East Technological University (SETU) recently announced a comprehensive four-year study led by PhD researcher Nicola Briggs. This initiative, supported by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), focuses on ‘Ireland Lights Up’ initiative, encouraging GAA clubs to illuminate their pitches and organise weekly walks during the winter months.

While ILU has gained significant popularity, little research has been conducted to understand its underlying mechanisms of success and the specific ways it benefits individuals. The SETU research team aims to fill this knowledge gap over the next four years, shedding light on ILU's efficacy and providing valuable insights for community-based health and wellbeing initiatives.

The primary aims of the study are to:

• Measure the effectiveness of ILU implementation across GAA clubs

• Assess the impact of ILU on health and wellbeing

• Develop a blueprint for community-based approaches

Nicola Briggs, PhD researcher, expressed her enthusiasm about the project: "Our goal is not only to improve ILU but also to make communities healthier and stronger, ensuring inclusivity for all, even those facing challenges. We are excited to share our findings and contribute to the advancement of community-based initiatives."

Registration is simple, clubs can sign up for Ireland Lights Up and the Irish Life ‘Every Steps Counts Challenge’ HERE and you will then receive a welcome pack in the following days, including promotional materials, signage, and resources to ensure a successful event.