Elaine’s Daily Mile is picking up the pace
An exercise initiative which began as the brainchild of a Stirling headteacher is set to be extended to people of all ages across Scotland.
The Daily Mile was first developed by Elaine Wyllie MBE when she was head of St Ninian’s Primary in February 2012.
The simple initiative involved classes heading outside to jog or run around the school grounds for 15 minutes every day, at whatever pace suited the child best.
Though named The Daily Mile (as children tend to average running a mile in 15 minutes), the distance isn’t compulsory, and the ethos of the scheme is of inclusivity, enjoyment, and self-improvement over time. It is intended to help all children, no matter their age, ability or personal circumstances, enjoy getting active every day – getting fitter and healthier now, but also developing healthy habits for a lifetime.
Since 2016, The Daily Mile Foundation has been supported by INEOS, which has enabled the free initiative to grow globally helping millions of children to get active every day. It has been adopted by more than 11,700 schools and nurseries in 79 different countries. Scotland has seen huge growth with 973 schools and education settings taking part.
The Scottish Government and The Daily Mile has now announced the development of a Daily Mile Nation Strategy alongside the appointment of Fiona Paterson in the role of programme manager for Scotland.
The Daily Mile Foundation has developed a strategy in partnership with Scottish Government and in consultation with delivery partners to ensure it can be made accessible across Scotland, regardless of ability, age or personal circumstance.
Fiona’s appointment to The Daily Mile Foundation is funded by the Scottish Government. Before joining The Daily Mile, Fiona was programme manager at Scottish Swimming for ten years, where she championed the importance of getting children involved in sport.
Elaine Wyllie MBE, founder of The Daily Mile, said: “We are so pleased to have the Scottish Government’s support and the new strategy provides a great platform that will bring Scotland closer to becoming the first Daily Mile Nation. The Daily Mile is continuing to grow across the globe and partners like the Scottish Government make it possible for it to reach more children, young people and adults.
“The Daily Mile is free, easy to implement and has been transformational to the lives of millions of schoolchildren worldwide. I encourage schools, organisations and individuals across Scotland to get fit for life by making The Daily Mile a simple yet truly powerful part of their day.”
Joe Fitzpatrick, Minister for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing said: “The impact of Covid-19 has been felt by everyone in Scotland across all walks of life and provided further challenges around physical and mental health. The Daily Mile can be part of the solution to improved health and wellbeing.”
In 2017 the Scottish Government announced their ambition to become the first Daily Mile Nation.