I don’t know if a second lockdown is going to be easier or harder than first time around. On the one hand, we know more of what to expect so in theory, can be better prepared but on the other, it’s knowing how isolating it can be from the experiences of the first time which are still very recent memories which is why Essex Sport is here to help!

If you moved onto campus this term, it’s unlikely you’ve had the chance to meet many fellow students or staff with lectures being online, and there only being a limited amount of face to face activities for you to join, but hopefully you’ve found a way to stay active? If you haven’t, don’t panic. As the old saying goes, yesterday was the best time to start but the second best time is now, so here’s your first opportunity… we are working to deliver a host of online and some face to face activities for you over the next few weeks, starting with facilitating some buddy up, walk and talks!

When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins and these interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain, alongside triggering a positive feeling in your body. Therefore, when experts say exercise can help your physical and mental wellbeing, it’s scientifically true, and walking (at a good pace!) is a great form of exercise, and can count towards the chief medical officers recommended guidance.

If you haven’t explored it yet, the Colchester campus is set in the award winning Wivenhoe Park (it’s up for nomination this year and voting is open now) and is a world away from being stuck in your accommodation room or busy (or like my University days, messy!) shared kitchen, so why not take this opportunity to meet some new student friends or some of the Essex Sport staff, have a chat, all while getting some fresh air and adding to your daily step count!

If you’re interested, please get in touch via email on sportsdevelopment@essex.ac.uk and tell us 2 or 3 of your favourite hobbies or interests so we can find someone you’ll have loads in common with and can walk & talk for hours!