Get fit in the Cairngorms

People in Perth and Kinross are being encouraged to get out an explore the Cairngorms with a health walk group.

There are a number of different health walk groups all over the national park, with short, social and low-level walks with a trained leader.

Mike Woolvin from the Cairngorms National Park Authority explained:“We’ve just had Wee Walks Week last month celebrating short local walks and we’re delighted to report that we had lots of people taking part.

“We want that momentum and enthusiasm for being active in the outdoors to continue and one of the easiest ways for people to do that is to join a health walk.

“Those already taking part say that it’s given them the chance to explore the outdoors more, that they feel better physically and that they particularly enjoy the social side of groups, always making time for a cup of tea and a blether at the end of the walk.“

The national park authority are also hoping to recruit more volunteer leaders to help guide those on the health walks.

Mike added “There are over 60 trained health walk volunteers across the walking groups, and without the time and enthusiasm of those volunteers, the health walks would not happen.

“Volunteering is a great way to give something back to the local community, share your love of walking, help others to increase their confidence and abilities, or just to have fun.

“You would be part of a group of volunteers in your area, giving as much or as little time as you like, and there’s lots of support and training available.

“We would be keen to hear from anyone who would be interested in training as a volunteer walk leader to help expand the programme further, benefitting many more people.”

Those wanting to find out more or get involved in the Cairngorm’s health walks can contact Mike on mikewoolvin@cairngorms.co. uk or call him on 01479 870566.