Shropshire Council’s Walking for Health co-ordinators are taking the lead in developing and promoting health walks across Shropshire.
As part of the national ‘Walking for Health’ campaign, the walks aim to encourage people, particularly those who take little exercise, to do regular short walks in their communities and improve their health.
The Walking for Health initiative is part of a nationally recognised scheme and is accredited by Natural England and supported by the Shropshire Primary Care Trust. Funding has been provided by Sport England.
Councillor Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: “The Walking for Health campaign is a great way to improve or maintain your general health. Walking is an easy and cheap form of exercise that is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, and you can do it at anytime or anywhere.”
Walking for Health Officer for the Shrewsbury, Atcham and Oswestry area, Becky Johns, said “Walking is almost perfect exercise: it requires no equipment or expense and is the ideal way for most people to become more active. It can make you feel good and sleep better, boost your self confidence, help towards managing your weight, and will significantly benefit in keeping your heart strong and reducing your blood pressure.”
More volunteers are needed to help develop and lead the walks, particularly those for beginners. Training and support is provided and there are always two volunteer walk leaders for every group.
A typical beginner’s walk would last no longer then forty minutes and be on level ground. It is hoped that, with encouragement and support by the leaders, new walkers will gradually be able to progress onto longer and more challenging routes.
If you would like to meet new people and improve your health, or volunteer as a walk leader, then please contact your local Walking for Health co-ordinator.