Maggie's new health scheme

A HEALTH project based in Ipswich is hoping an unusual method of keeping fit will take off in the town.

Nordic Walking is thought to help develop better general fitness, strengthen muscles and improve heart rates.

The Town & Bridge project has adopted the sport to get people aged 45 and over who live in Ipswich, particularly in the Town Centre and Stoke areas, more active for very little cost.

Already promoting health and community walks at various locations, the project is inviting people to find out more about Nordic Walking and even give it a go.

Maggie Jennings, a champion of Nordic Walking, is set to lead a taster course for anyone keen to try it out at Christchurch Park.

Julie Stokes, Town & Bridge project manager, said: “For those people who find walking difficult because of weight problems, knee, joint or back problems, Nordic Walking is a technique that may be able to help.

“For those men needing to work on their 'beer belly' and women wanting to improve and tone their core muscles, Nordic Walking is the way to go.”

The Nordic Walking taster course will start on Monday, September 21 and then every Monday until October 26, at Christchurch Park, from 11am to 12.30pm.

Each session costs �1.50 and the walking group will meet at the Reg Driver Centre, where people will be fitted with appropriately sized poles and over the six weeks will be shown the basic techniques.

The course will also enable people to become a Town & Bridge ActivAge member and find out about all the other healthy lifestyle initiatives available in the area.

The course is particularly aimed at people who want to improve their health but find it difficult joining an exercise class or gym.

If you would like more information about Nordic Walking and to book your place contact Maggie Jennings on 01728 832638.

If you would like to book a place but would like some support to attend then contact Julie or Lindsay on 01473 261112.