Walking to fitness

New walking sessions are to be added to the weekly programme of activities as part of the activ8teme initiative of low cost, easy access sessions designed to help people in the borough of Rochdale get more active, more often.

The first session to be launched will be ‘Walking for All’. Regardless of age or fitness level this new sociable walking group is designed to suit everybody.

Activ8teme co-ordinator Sarah Shard, introducing the group, said: “Walking is an excellent way to add to general health and well-being. This will be an informal session with a friendly walk leader and will take in local routes.”

The new walking session will meet and finish at Rochdale Leisure Centre, Entwisle Road on Thursdays starting at 10am. The first session is on Thursday 27 March and everyone interested should meet inside the centre at reception. The session costs just £2 and refreshments will be available at the centre afterwards.

The month of May will also see a first for the borough of Rochdale with the launch of Nordic Walking. Originally designed as a training concept for extremely fit cross country skiers, Nordic Walking uses specially designed walking poles to help boost fitness levels.

“Nordic, or pole walking, involves applying force to the poles with each stride”, explained Sarah Shard. “Unlike ordinary walking, you use more of the entire body so it is good exercise for the chest, arms and back, it helps boost heart rate and can also burn more calories.”

Nordic Walking taster sessions, with poles provided, will be held at various locations across the borough at the beginning of May. To put your name down for a taster session contact Sarah or Julie on 01706 926201 or 926239 or email activ8teme@link4life.org