Beth YeomansThe City of York Council’s Sport and Active Leisure team is looking to train up some enthusiastic volunteers to become Community Nordic Walking Instructors. Nordic Walking is, according to Nordic Walking UK the fastest growing fitness activity in the world, and burns up to 46% more calories than ordinary walking.
Nordic Walking UK have partnered up with the council to provide a one-day training course on 24 May. Volunteers will gain a recognised qualification, get first aid training and become a Community Nordic Walking Instructor.
Cabinet member for Leisure, Culture and Social Inclusion, Councillor Sonja Crisp says, “Nordic walking is a great activity, which people of all ages and abilities can enjoy. It’s a great way for people to take in the spectacular views of York whilst getting some exercise”.
The scheme has been running for over a year and has been incredibly successful with around 300 residents taking part. Anyone can take part whether you are 18 or 80, once trained volunteers are able to lead a weekly one-hour walk around York or in the countryside.
Sarah Prescott, City of York Council’s Active officer, said, “This is an exciting opportunity for people to make a difference in their local community. Volunteers provide weekly walks, which promote the health benefits of being more active in a fun and friendly environment.”
Nordic walking involves using special poles to enhance your normal walking style. It is a good way to improve posture, get a body workout and even strengthens the back and tummy muscles.
The initiative is part of the York Health Walk programme, which has been running for ten years, with the help of many volunteers, the program offers low cost ways to be physically active.
For more information on the programme or to book a place on the course, contact Sarah Prescott at City of York Council tel: 01904 553377 or email: sarah,prescot@york.gov.uk. Visit the York Health Walk programme website here for more information.
If you are interested in Nordic walking the get involved in one of the free taster days, the sessions are one hour long. They will show you the basics so come and get involved. The Nordic poles will be provided. If you enjoy it then the next Nordic Walking Course will start on Tuesday 1 May, 11:00 am until 12:00 pm, and costs £20 including the hire of Nordic Walking Poles.
Rowntree Park – Thursday 15 March 2012, 10:00 am to 11:00 am
St George’s car park, city centre, York – Wednesday 18 April, 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm
Rowntree Park – Tuesday 24 April 2012, 10.00 am to 11:00 am
Rowntree Park – Wednesday 9 May, 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
Rawcliffe Country Park – Saturday 12 May 2012, 10:00 am to 11.30 am
