In a bid to promote and improve physical activity levels in Lewis and Harris, a team of new Walk Leaders was recently trained.

A total of seven new Walk Leaders have been trained to lead group walks in their local communities, joining a team of 50 volunteers already trained by the ‘Walk on Hebrides’ project in recent years. These volunteer Walk Leaders are invaluable in providing walkers with an opportunity to reap the health rewards from group walks.

The training was delivered by Karen Peteranna, NHS Western Isles Health Improvement Practitioner. The aim of the training is to provide participants with the skills and confidence to lead Health Walks in their local community. A Health Walk is a group walk led by trained Walk Leaders. They are open to all and the distance and pace depends on the ability of the walkers.

Walking is a simple way to increase your physical activity. It’s an all round great activity for all ages and fitness levels, which can improve your health, help you lose weight, make you feel good and it’s free – all you need is a pair of comfy shoes! Group walking has the added bonus of being a social event where you can meet new people and have a blether.

The ‘Walk on Hebrides’ project currently has 12 group walks available across the islands which can now be viewed in handy at-a-glance calendars (Lewis & Harris and Uists & Barra) at: https://www.promotionswi.scot.nhs.uk/ – and keep an eye out for new walks being added soon!

If you would like to join a Health Walk or you are interested in becoming a Walk Leader in your local community please contact: Karen Peteranna, Health Improvement Practitioner, tel. 01851 762015 or email: karen.peteranna@nhs.net 

#HealthWalk #WalkonHebrides #joiningetactive #PathsforAll #NHSWesternIsles