NORDIC walkers are aiming to give this year’s Examiner Charity Challenge a major boost.
Two walks – one three miles and the other seven – have been organised for them and now people have been urged to join a group of Nordic walkers from Greenhead Park and sign up for the event on May 19.
They’ll not only be raising money for good causes along the way but also exercising far more than just their legs.
Nordic or pole walking offers ‘all round’ exercise and uses over 90% of the body’s muscles.
By using poles walkers use the upper body muscles as well as their legs. The poles help to propel the walker along which means they work harder but the support given by the poles makes it feel easier. The technique can also help reduce stress on knees and other joints.
Gill Logan, from Kirklees Council’s Sport and Physical Activity Team, said: “Setting yourself a goal to complete the Examiner Charity Challenge is a great way to help people get into walking regularly as they prepare for the longer walk on the day itself.
“We recommend that people start with short distances and gradually build up to complete either the three or seven mile walk. It’s more fun if there is a group of you as you can have a chat as you walk and if you arrange to meet up once or twice a week then you get into the habit and it gives you something to look forward to.”
Members of one of the regular Nordic Walking Groups run by Kirklees Council at Greenhead Park have already signed up to take part in the Challenge, raising funds for The Oliver Field Appeal.
Two-year-old Oliver from Dalton has a rare cancer called Neuroblastoma and may need treatment overseas sometime this year.
Anyone wishing to start Nordic walking or practice for the Challenge can join one of the regular Nordic walking groups across Kirklees.
Nordic walks last around an hour and those taking part need to dress appropriately for the weather and as if they are going for a brisk walk. Outdoor trainers are ideal.
Nordic poles are available with a small hire charge of £1.There are free half-hour sessions before the walks start to get beginners started on the techniques they use.
These sessions need to be booked in advance.
Sessions currently run at Spenborough Pool, Oakwell Hall, Crow Nest Park, Lindley Library, Cleckheaton Library and Information Centre, Beaumont Park and Castle Hill.
New sessions are due to start on Saturdays from 10am to 11.30am at Lindley Library from April 27 and on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7.30pm at Greenhead Park from May 1.
For more details of the full Nordic Walking programme visit www.kirklees.gov.uk/nordic or contact Gill Logan on 01484 234097.
