Around Ealing Summer 2017 | Page 30

BEFORE YOU GO... Councillor Tailor walking with health training co-ordinator Nell Blane T his summer, why not take advantage of our lovely parks and the mild weather to get out and active? You could join in an organised walk, go for a run or use the outdoor gym equipment. There are 10 walks arranged every week in the borough to help anyone interested in becoming more active, losing weight or just becoming healthier in general. These walks take place at a number of parks across the borough. They are free to take part in, easy to access and are suitable for all walkers. They are organised for One You Ealing, which Ealing Council jointly runs with partners, by Southall Community Alliance. You can fi nd out more online at oneyouealing.org/moving Councillor Hitesh Tailor, the council’s cabinet member for health and adult such as heart disease, asthma, stroke and some cancers; and it improves our mental health. In fact, a recent report by the Ramblers and Macmillian Cancer Support found that regular walking could save 37,000 lives each year. It could also lead to nearly 300,000 fewer cases of type 2 diabetes. The report shows walking to be a great way to fulfi l the 150 minutes of moderate physical exercise every week recommended by the UK’s chief medical offi cer. And, best of all, walking is enjoyable – and free.” Southall resident Nell Blane walks regularly as part of her daily routine after suffering health problems, and is a health training co-ordinator. Read more on Nell’s story, and about walking, at ealingnewsextra.co.uk/features/ walking Walk this way services, walks to Ealing and Shepherds Bush regularly from his home in Acton. He said: “Walking is underrated as a form of exercise. It is ideal for people of all ages and fi tness levels who want to be more active. Regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, A GYM OUTDOORS Outdoor gym equipment has been put into 27 local parks by the council so far, often at the request of residents at ward forum meetings. It allows you to exercise in your own time, in the fresh air. Popular with people of all ages and abilities, the equipment works different parts of your body, including arms, legs and core muscles. There are instructions on the machines to help fi rst time users learn how to use them. For runners, joggers and even walkers, there are distance marker routes in 23 parks, making it easier for you to measure how far you have gone. If you are ready to go out and try out any kind of physical exercise in the park, remember to wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. It is also advisable to bring along water and sunblock in the warmer weather. 30 around ealing June 2017