Men urged to get fit and healthy in Dartmoor scheme (From Mid Devon Star)
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Men urged to get fit and healthy in Dartmoor scheme
10:12am Friday 5th October 2012 in News
Men are being encouraged to get fit and healthy in the wilds of Dartmoor as part of a free programme of activities.
Run by the Stepping Stones to Nature project, together with the NHS and Dartmoor National Park Authority, the Moor Men’s Health programme includes guided walks, conservation activities, navigation and survival skills.
Activities focus on improving cardiovascular health and stamina, as well as introducing men to the range of free activities that can be carried out in the National Park.
Any age and any fitness level can take part. Participants are encouraged to support one another and work as a team over a series of five sessions.
The first programme was held earlier this year and the men who took part showed an improvement in health, with weight loss and improved BMI. Over 60 per cent said they had increased their activity levels as a result, and all had visited Dartmoor more often.
Dean Blagdon, NHS physical activity officer said: “I really enjoyed leading an all-male project. I also learnt things about Dartmoor that I didn’t know before.
“I was surprised at the impact just a short programme of activities had on participants’ health and confidence to visit Dartmoor regularly and pleased to see such a diverse group of fitness levels working together.”
Cabinet member for the environment, Councillor Brian Vincent, said: “This is an example of a project that can make a difference to people who do not normally get much attention.
“Not only did the first project improve their physical health but everyone told us that they enjoyed it – especially the camaraderie and being able to discuss issues in an all-male group.”
An introduction session will be held at Brickfields Sports Centre, Madden Road, Devonport, PL1 4NE on Tuesday, October 16 between 1.30pm and 3pm.
For more information contact Dean on 01752 431638 or email dean.blagdon@nhs.net.
