Stepping out in Stockton

Stepping Out In Stockton
Health Walks
Walking is set to play a bigger role in creating a healthier nation. Described by health experts as 'almost perfect exercise', walking requires no equipment or expense and is the ideal way for most people to become more active. Seven out of every ten people in this country are not physically active enough to benefit their health!

It's good to walk!

Regular walking has been proven to provide many health benefits, particularly if undertaken for five thirty-minute sessions each week. There are both long and short term benefits to regular walking. In the long term it can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure, type II diabetes, bowel cancer and reduce the development of osteoporosis.

The short term benefits of regular walking include weight loss, better strength and mobility, improved mood and a general feeling of better health and wellbeing.

In short, walking regularly can improve many aspects of your life. Most importantly, its free and no special equipment is required as all walks are along hard surfaces; most of our walks are accessible to pushchair and wheelchair users.

Did you know?

Walking briskly for 45 minutes a day, 4 days a week, without a change in diet, can make you lose 18lbs in a year.

Group and independent walking

Walking as part of one of our groups can be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends. Group walk details can be found below, and are a great way to discover more of your local neighbourhoods. All group walks are lead by a qualified walk leader and back up leader, allowing all abilities of walkers to attend.

Independent walking is a perfect time for quiet reflection, especially when walking through the local countryside. Shortly, an independent walkers pack will be available, which will give suggested routes for walks that can be undertaken at your leisure.

Regular Weekly Walks from:
Billingham, Eaglescliffe, Ingelby Barwick, Thornaby, Stockton Town Centre (lunchtime special), Norton, Newtown Resource Centre, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre.
Fortnightly Walks - Out and about with Roger (various locations), Elm Tree, Norton Library, Stillington.

Download the leaflet for dates and details!

Can you help us?
Do you have a little time to spare?
Do you enjoy being outdoors?

If the answer to these questions is yes, why not become a Volunteer Walk Leader! No experience is necessary and all training is provided through a one day training course, and is followed up with a First Aid Course. The Course is recognised by the British Heart Foundation and the Countryside Agency.

For further information about anything in this article, please contact Steve on

Tel. (01642) 528049/528046 or Email:

steve.laskey@stockton.gov.uk

stepping.out@stockton.gov.uk

Visit: Stockton-online.ac.uk - community portal