Moving For Life Conference 2017

This weekend saw the second annual Moving for Life conference on diabetes and sport, held in Swansea University and organised by the Diabetes Research Unit and Diabetes UK Cymru. The event was held for the first time last year, but this year saw over 100 people registered, all with an interest in becoming more active, learning from each other and the experts who spoke and sharing experiences.

This year also had an exhibition hall, which was packed with exhibitors ranging from diabetes charities, medical device companies and individuals sharing their stories. The event began with a talk from Paul Coker, about his 40 marathon adventures. He was followed by second speaker with type 2 diabetes Debbie Longman who spoke about tackling her diagnosis by becoming more active through running and currently competing in triathlons. There was then a presentation from diabetes dietitian Kathryn, who spoke about the importance of healthy eating and the Eatwell Guide, and also Rob Sage from Public Health Wales, who talked about government initiatives to help get people more active. The morning talks were completed by a great presentation from Dr Camilla, a Swansea University researcher, who spoke about the role of parents in promoting physical activity, which I will discuss further in a later blog.

Parkrun Participation in Wales

The event was great and it was lovely to see so many of the diabetes community in south Wales come out to engage with each other and their physical activity with diabetes. Parkrun was a common thread that ran throughout the speakers and participants. Many who had become active since diagnosis had done so through engagement with Parkrun, becoming part of the community and using their support to grow in confidence with physical activity, which was truly inspiring to hear.

Team Type 1