Chance to discover the health and well-being benefits of walking

Health Walks are a free, low level, short walk in the company of others and led by trained Health Walk leaders who are normally volunteers.

Although they are open to everyone, they are ideal for those who are currently inactive, living with long term conditions, recovering from injury or illness and at risk of isolation. They are also a great way to connect with nature and make new friends and across Angus there is a number of existing Health Walks delivered by a range of groups and organisations.

Partnering with Paths for All, Skilz Academy, Kirrie Connections and Creative Spark Yoga, this series of five walks on National Walking Day includes themes such as ‘Wake up to Spring’, ‘Mindful Walking’, ‘Bring a Pooch’ and a ‘Dementia Friendly’ walk.

The first walk will start at 9.30am at Skilz in Arbroath, with the last one beginning at 6pm in Monikie Country Park.

Widely regarded as one of the best means of exercise, walking is free and can be done by almost everyone, anywhere and at anytime. Even a short walk each day can have positive effects on physical, mental, social and emotional health while reducing risks of many common conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, stroke and cancers.

Unlike many forms of activity, people often report almost immediate benefits after even one walk, including improved sleep and reduced stress.

Rhona Guild, health walk co-ordinator with ANGUSalive, said: “We are extremely fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the country with easy access to such a varied coastline, urban and rural areas, with some fantastic path networks to enjoy.

“Access to Health Walks across Angus help make walking more accessible for those who may struggle to walk alone and for the many who would rather walk in company while enjoying the many social benefits that brings.”

Graham Galloway, chief officer of Kirrie Connections, added: "Kirrie Connections’ weekly health walks have been on a hiatus over the cold, wet winter months. So we are very excited to be starting them up again next Wednesday, on National Walking Day.

"Spring is bursting out all over now, so it's the perfect time to restart our dementia-friendly health walk up Kirrie Hill. Our walk is not just great exercise, it's also a social occasion for those taking part. New walkers are always welcome, just email [email protected] for more info"

You can find out more about the series of health walks planned for National Walking Day at www.angusalive.scot/whats-on.

ANGUSalive is the culture, sport and leisure trust for the county of Angus and has been operating since December 2015. The charity is ambitious and aims to provide the best services for its customers. ANGUSalive offers residents and visitors to Angus a wealth of services which are ‘changing lives by inspiring healthy, active and creative lifestyle choices’ through the use of its sports centres, country parks, theatres and venues, museums, galleries, archives and libraries.