On 14th and 15th January 2025, delegates from across Europe gathered in Tallinn in Estonia at the invite of the Competence Centre for Physical Activity (CCPA) in Estonia. CCPA have a clear objective to be the most active nation in Europe by 2030 and this event created dialogue, knowledge sharing and discussions on how that aspiration could be achieved.
ENOS was represented by Benjamin Billet and Mike McClure, but a range of other ENOS member organisations were also involved in the 2 days which ensured that the importance of the outdoors and nature as key drivers to get people active was well highlighted.
There was a strong representation from other Nordic and Baltic countries including Finland (which according to the Eurobarometer on Sport and Physical Activity) are currently the most active nation in Europe.
There were a great range of very inspiring sessions on topics such as innovative infrastructure, nature connectedness, gamification, winter and mountain biking and importance of play. However as with many European events, it was the opportunity for networking, side discussions and activities that provided a fantastic way to share ideas and examples of good practice.
CCPA have a great level of support from Ministers and the government as they seek to roll out plans for making physical activity in all its forms part of the culture and daily way of life for everyone in Estonia. Access to nature feels like it is part of the national identity and psyche already in Estonia but one of the very interesting elements that was highlighted was that trails are not just trails – they are known as “health trails” as that is what they deliver!
The great thing is – you too can experience the sessions by visiting the sessions website at https://liigume.ee/bestwaytomove/ where the recordings of the sessions are available to view and listen to.