Walking Initiative Steps Up To the Mark

The Steps2Health walking initiative, which was established in Pembrokeshire in 2005 and has been managed by Health Challenge Pembrokeshire since 2007, really steps up to the mark when it comes to encouraging more people to walk frequently, as a way of improving their health.

At present there are 8 Steps2Health groups who meet to walk regularly at venues throughout the County.

Contact details for each local group can be found on Steps2Health together with general information on walking for health.

In autumn 2008, a new dimension was added to the Pembrokeshire Steps2Health programme when a Nordic Walking Taster Session was held at Scolton Manor. The event proved so popular that organisers had to re-run it twice!

Nordic, or pole, walking combines the simplicity and accessibility of walking with core and upper body conditioning. The result is a full body work out, in which you are estimated to burn up to 46% more calories than walking without poles. However, because you are using all your limbs for support Nordic walking does not feel like hard work and it feels easier to walk further and for longer.

Since the initial taster sessions, support for equipment has been provided by the Health Challenge Pembrokeshire Well-being Activity Grant (2008-9), and a free, monthly Nordic walk, open to all, has been established (on the last Saturday of each month). Poles are provided, so those taking part just need clothing and footwear suitable for outdoor activity.

In addition support from Age Concern Cymru/Help the Aged in Wales, has enabled organisers to offer free lessons for the over 50s at venues throughout the County.

Lessons have recently been held at Pembroke, Pembroke Dock and Cilgerran. Further lessons are also planned, for Haverfordwest, Tenby and elsewhere, after Christmas.

If you would like to know more, please contact Paul Morris, Steps2Health Co-ordinator and INWA Nordic Walking Instructor, on 07747 564042 or paul.morris@pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Photo caption: A 50+ group take a breather on a recent Nordic walk at Stackpole