Putting one foot in front of the other and going for a walk has the power to relieve some of life’s problems and the mental and physical benefits can far outstretch the miles covered!
Walking comes with lots of benefits including improved heart health, boosts the ‘happy hormones’, helps you to stay social and notice and appreciate the natural environment all around us. With all these benefits and many more, you are invited to join getactiveabc during National Walking Month and make May your month to move.
In partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, a free Walk Wise: Personal Safety Walking Programme will run at locations across the borough. Featuring guided 45-minute group walks and tips for staying active and walking safely, it’s a fun, friendly way to get active, meet new people, and explore the outdoors.
Through the vibrant, community-led Walking for All programme, getactiveabc is running two Volunteer Walk Leader training sessions at Loughgall Country Park and Gilford Community Centre. Becoming a walk leader is a great way to support your community to become more active. Full training and ongoing support are provided, and you do not need to be super fit or an expert walker, just friendly, reliable and enthusiastic.
‘Walking Netball’ (at Banbridge Leisure Centre) and ‘Walking Football’ (at Gilford & Dromore Community Centres) are great low impact, yet competitive activities that encourage older people to enjoy these sports at a slower pace. New members are always welcome!
‘Nordic Walking’ is an excellent form of exercise said to work 90% of the muscles in the body. Learn the proper Nordic walking technique that will help you walk improve your cardio, develop strength, improve posture and reduce the impact on your joints.
The ‘Move More Macmillan’ group walks continue throughout May and June. This group supports people living with and beyond cancer to become and remain active, and to enjoy an improved quality of life as a result. Upcoming walks will take in some spectacular scenic routes across the borough and beyond!
If you are interested in exploring local parks in a whole new light, try out the ABC Audio Walking Trails via the ‘ExploreABC’ app! Experience six unique audio trails, four in Lurgan Park and two in Banbridge’s Solitude Park. The audio trails will enable you to explore each park, learn more about the area’s history and connect with the nature and wildlife that make these parks their home!
Throughout the month of May, getactiveabc will be supporting Southern Health and Social Care Trust’s ‘Walk This May’ campaign. Through the Get Schools Moving initiative, schools are also encouraged to get involved by taking part in Walk to School Week (18-22 May) and the Daily Mile – both great initiatives to promote active travel to school, during school and after school!
If you’re an individual, group, school or business that would like to get involved in National Walking Month – get more information at getactiveabc.com/nationalwalkingmonth
