Dundee’s Big Fit Walk will help local people living with cancer

A series of walks suitable for all fitness abilities will take place in Baxter Park in Dundee today, having been designed especially to help people living with cancer.

The Big Fit Walk is part of a series of health focused events organised by Scottish charity Paths for All, who encourage people from all walks of life to go out more often.

Today’s event will start at 10am, leaving from the Baxter Park pavilion.

The walk has been designed to also be buggy-friendly.

Leisure and Culture Dundee has been involved in the planning of the event, in partnership with healthy living organisations Move More Dundee, ParkLives Dundee and Dundee Healthy Living Initiative.

Sinclair Aitken, chairman of Leisure and Culture Dundee, said: “Walking is a fantastic form of physical activity that can be enjoyed by anyone, at any time. Not only has it been shown to reduce the risk of various chronic illnesses, it is also free, safe and fun to do.

“A main objective is to raise the public awareness of all these free walking groups currently running throughout the city and welcome all to take part.

“This event aims to demonstrate how enjoyable a health walk can be as well as the physical, psychological and social benefits of walking.”

There are four themes for each walk – mindfulness, Nordic, fit and health.

Ian Findlay, chief officer at Paths for All, said: “In a nation where too many of us are unfit and inactive, walking is one of the easiest ways to incorporate a little more activity into our day.

“A simple short walk is free, accessible for most and has a wealth of benefits. It can help to protect us from developing heart disease, stroke or some cancers, improve our mood and make us feel better connected in our communities.

“The Big Fit Walk helps put the fun into walking. Walking in groups can boost self-esteem, create opportunities to meet new people in our area, or discover some local hidden treasures.”

For more information contact Simon Brady on 01382 432407.