Hitchin Health Walks
A programme of healthy walks is proving highly successful in Hitchin. Volunteer walk leaders, trained by the Countryside Management Service, are offering a regular programme of short walks. So far, nearly 200 walkers have signed up to take part.
The walks are aimed at those who do not usually take part in exercise. At the official launch of the Hitchin programme, Pieter Shipster, Assistant Director of Public Health at the North Herts and Stevenage Primary Care Trust, urged members of the public to join the free walks. 'We are becoming a less physically active society and it’s having a serious effect on our health,' he told the VIPs and guests who had come along for the launch at Hitchin Football Club.
He went on to say: 'Regular walking can improve stamina, confidence and energy levels, and help those who have difficulty with balance; it can reduce anxiety and mild depression and it is also recommended for people with obesity, diabetes and osteoporosis problems.'
Walkers set their own pace and most of the circular walks last from 30 minutes to an hour and don’t require special clothing, just sturdy shoes. There is no need to book and they start and finish at a pub or community centre, so people taking part can stop afterwards for refreshments if they want.
The Countryside Management Service is running the walks in conjunction with North Hertfordshire District Council, North Herts and Stevenage Primary Care Trust and Abbott Health Care.
Community diabetes nurse specialist Mary Hayes said: 'People with diabetes can really benefit from the exercise as much as from their tablets. It makes quite a difference to blood glucose and weight. And if people are more active, walking can help to prevent diabetes.'
The programme includes walks during the week, at weekends and in the evenings. You can find out more and download the leaflet here.
