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Healthy Walks Co-ordinator appointed

This page was uploaded on: Thursday, 10-Nov-2011 12:22:34 GMT

Eleanor Wilde has been appointed as Healthy Walks Co-ordinator for the New Forest.

Jointly funded by Community First New Forest, New Forest District Council, Hampshire County Council, National Parks, NHS Hampshire and Natural England, Eleanor's role is to promote and co-ordinate health walks in the New Forest.

Priority will be given to individuals and communities identified either at risk of major health conditions or in areas of high deprivation, having health concerns and risk of social isolation.

Any walk which is specifically designed and carried out to improve health is classified as a health walk.

The impact on health will depend on the person, how often and how intense the walk is but a brisk, purposeful walk (ie more than just a stroll) is proven to have a benefit to cardiovascular health (the heart).

Organised walks, such as the 'Walking for Health' walks, offer the chance to get outdoors - often in a natural environment - and meet people.

Eleanor says,

"We hear time and time again about walkers who have greatly reduced stress and made lasting friendships because of the social element of our health walks".

Walking is the most affordable, flexible, widely available and socially inclusive mode of independent travel.

Health walks encourage people to access physical activity from their homes, resulting in a more sustainable approach to recreation and a reduction in private car use where public transport links are absent.

Walking is a really good natural exercise that contributes to living longer, staying healthy and controlling weight.

It's also a great way of discovering more about the area people live in and spending time with family and friends.

Encouraging a greater understanding and enjoyment of the environment is important for those participating on health walks in the New Forest.

As part of her role, Eleanor will be recruiting Volunteer Walk Leaders and facilitating 'Walking for Health' training (Natural England's WfH Scheme).

Eleanor is currently introducing a range of health walks including beginner level (30-45 mins) to ensure those who are most in need are catered for.

She is also keen on exploring opportunities for increasing access to Nordic Walking in the New Forest.

Eleanor concludes,

"I love walking and the New Forest is a great place to get out and about and to appreciate the beautiful countryside that many people have on their doorstep. Having previously been involved in many physical activity programmes in other areas and also an active and healthy person, I am keen to put my knowledge and understanding to use in the New Forest and what better place to do it!"

For more information on Health Walks in the New Forest contact Eleanor on 01425 482773 or Healthywalks@cfnf.org.uk

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