Telford & Wrekin Senior Citizens' Forum
Walking
Walking is a superb form of physical activity and will help you increase your overall fitness level. It can provide long term health benefits such as improved endurance, lower heart rate, lower stress levels and by improving overall fitness you will help reduce the risks of chronic heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis. Walking is social, enjoyable for all ages and carries few risks of injuries and what is more it's FREE!!
MAKE WALKING PART OF YOUR DAILY ROUTINE BY:Where possible walk to the shops instead of taking the car or public transport. Use the stairs instead of the lift. If on public transport, get off the bus one stop early and walk the rest of the way. Take the dog for an extra walk each day - maybe even 2 walks?
Walking the way to health is an initiative of the British Heart Foundation and the Countryside Agency. 'Walkabout Wrekin'
Telford & Wrekin Council organises a number of led walks to get people up on their feet and out and about in the Borough.
The walking for health project promotes the benefits regular walking can bring to body, mind and soul. To see a list of the walks please click
here.
All walks are led by trained walk leaders. You can even become a walk leader yourself and lead others towards a healthier
life as part of the Walkabout scheme.
Walk leader training takes place throughout the year. The training programme includes information about the benefits of
exercise, tips on motivating people to walk, talks on safety whilst walking and a First Aid qualification.
Special clothing is not required on the walks, but suitable footwear is recommended.
If you have not exercised for some time, or feel that you have a medical condition that may affect your ability, please consult a GP before going on the walk. Alternatively, contact Jenny Stretton (details below) for advice regarding S.T.A.R.S - the GP referral scheme.
To find out more about the walks on offer, the benefits of walking, or for information on becoming a Walkabout Wrekin walk leader, contact Jenny Stretton, health promotion officer on 01952 686332/686310.
Other organisations which offer you the opportunity to take part in walks are:-
Telford Strollers meet on Thursdays at Oakengates Leisure Centre, contact John Fenn on 01952 603570.
Green Wellies meet at Stirchley Leisure Centre on every other Thursday. Contact: John Stocking 01952 596826