Salisbury Spinal Unit takes on Do the Loop

22 May 2026

Staff and participants at Salisbury Spinal Unit took on this year’s Do the Loop challenge by making it part of their rehab programme. Together, they topped the distance leadership board by covering an incredible 2,472km.

Highlights from the challenge included:

  • 22 participants completing 1km every day
  • 12 participants completing 4.7km every day
  • Back Up Wheelchair Skills Sessions covering a combined total of 7.5km

The unit created different loop routes around the hospital to help participants get involved at every stage of their recovery. From short pushes to the therapy department, to longer routes around Horatio’s Garden and trips to the sweet shop, everyone had the chance to take part and challenge themselves.

“We all have so much in common on our journey to recovery. This was a great way of getting us all to practice skills and work as a Team.”

Participants got involved in a range of activities, including daily gym sessions, wheelchair skills sessions, hand cycling, leg cycling and independent pushes around the hospital grounds. Some completed 1km each day, while others challenged themselves to complete 4.7km daily. People with a range of injury levels took part, showing that everyone could get involved in a way that worked for them.

The Back Up Wheelchair Skills Session in March also joined the challenge, travelling through the hospital corridors and pathways and covering a combined total of 7.5km. Staff across the unit supported and encouraged participants throughout the challenge, helping create a positive and motivating atmosphere for everyone involved.

“The camaraderie in rehab is so important.”

Therapist

The challenge showed how important teamwork, encouragement and confidence building can be during rehab. By bringing participants and staff together through shared goals and everyday wheelchair skills, Do the Loop became more than just a distance challenge. It became a positive part of the rehabilitation journey for everyone involved.