COLUMN: Walk for health – it’s fun and free

Jess Hornby Jess Horn – South Holland District Council community development officer

Did you know that a lack of exercise now causes more illness in the EU than smoking? Getting active is really great for your physical health and emotional wellbeing.

It not only reduces your risk of developing a number of health problems, including coronary heart disease, cancer and strokes but it can also help you to relax, reduce stress and anxiety and improve your strength, flexibility and balance.
A fun, free way to become more physically active is to start walking.

In South Holland we have free weekly walking groups in Spalding, Donington, Crowland, Holbeach, Sutton St James, Long Sutton and from Ayscoughfee Hall.
The walking groups are organised by friendly, trained volunteer health walk leaders.

There are short walk options available in most groups to support you while you build up your fitness and the group running from Ayscoughfee Hall is accessible for people with mobility difficulties.

The Walking for Health Scheme is a great way to improve your health and fitness, meet new people and enjoy the beautiful landscape and buildings South Holland has to offer.
But if you prefer to walk on your own, with a small group of friends, or would like to try a different walking path there are a list of walks in South Holland on our website: http://www.sholland.gov.uk/health/walking.

If you would like to know more about the Walking for Health Scheme or are interested in joining a walking group please contact the walk coordinator on 01775 762178.
If you would like to know more about what is available in South Holland to support you to improve your health and wellbeing please contact the community development team on community@sholland.gov.uk.

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