New walks to encourage Selebians to lead healthier lifestyles

Both of the areas main local authorities have joined forces to launch seven new walks in the Selby area to encourage people to take regular exercise.

North Yorkshire County and Selby District councils say their new 'Pathways to Health' walks will help combat inactivity – something some experts now describe as a ‘silent killer’.

Many adults spend more than seven hours a day sitting down and for people aged 65 and over this can rise to ten hours or more. Walking regularly can reduce the risk of major illness, such as heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.

Lincoln Sargeant, Director of Public Health at the County Council, said: “National statistics show that around one in two women and a third of all men in England are damaging their health through physical inactivity. This costs the UK an estimated £7.4bn every year. We hope that by raising awareness of the health benefits of walking we can improve these worrying figures.”

Walks vary in distance from just over a mile to more challenging routes of up to nine miles. This gives everyone the opportunity to use the pathways, from those getting back into being more active to people who are confident walking much longer distances.

As well as reducing the risk of many major illnesses, going for a walk every day can be as effective at treating mild cases of depression as taking medication. Walking provides a rush of endorphins, which can help to relieve pain and boost the immune system. It’s also good for reducing stress and fatigue, increasing energy levels and improving concentration.

County Councillor David Chance, Executive Member for Public Health and Stronger Communities, said, “What may surprise people is that by exercising regularly you can significantly reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease and some cancers.

“These seven walks will offer people who want to get out there and be more active the opportunity to do so. Having access to the natural environment is incredibly important and I know that these walks will be a great asset to the community in Selby.”

Further details about the pathways to health project, including a map and walk directions, can be found on the NYCC website.