The Grenadier Walk of Oman. Day 8:The Invictus Games and power of sport. 

The Invictus Games is a key partner of The Grenadier Walk of Oman expedition. It was established by Walking With The Wounded’s Expedition Patron, The Duke of Sussex, in 2014 after he watched the Warrior Games in the USA in 2013.

During the games, The Duke of Sussex, saw first-hand how sport can support ex-military personnel who have been physically and mentally and socially wounded from their time in Service. The 2014 Invictus Games were first hosted in London in partnership with the Ministry of Defence. It created an international platform for veterans to showcase the power of sport, it inspired others who are going through similar journeys in their recovery, it demonstrated how sport can be used to help rehabilitate those with injuries and it helped deepen public knowledge and understanding of the ex-military community.

It’s no secret that sport and physical activity can increase self-esteem, improve your mood, reduce stress and anxiety and help to support better mental health. Moving every day, whether that is going for a short walk, training for a 5km run or embarking on The Grenadier Walk of Oman expedition across the UK, gives the brain something to focus on and can used as part of a coping strategy when things get tough.

Andy Phillips, from The Grenadier Walk of Oman team, took part in the Invictus Games and knows too well how physical activity can help to turn a life around.

“I found the transition to civilian life incredibly difficult, especially without any support. Since getting involved with the Invictus Games, I now have that family back that I lost when I was medically discharged. I need a focus on achieving something and that at the moment is missing in my life, and I really think the WWTW Oman Expedition would give me that drive back.”

Find out how WWTW supports those who served.