Walking to fitness, the Nordic way

Oldham Probation Service staff try Nordic walking in Alexandra Park with Alan Keane (left)

Probation staff put their best feet forward in a lunchtime fitness event to encourage healthy lifestyles.

The scheme, part of Oldham probation’s health and well-being staff initiative, involves employees completing a Nordic walking event in their lunchtime.

Nordic walking is a fitness technique which involves the use of poles to help develop upper body strength.

Michelle Thompson, Greater Manchester Probation Trust’s health, safety and well-being officer, said: “The event is one of a range of healthy activities and events being arranged for staff across the region.

“This maybe the first of many Nordic walks if staff enjoy the taster.” They were held at Alexandra Park for 45 minutes each, and were led by Nordic walking instructors Alan Keane and Samer Badriya from Oldham Community Leisure’s Energize project and the Oldham Nordic Walking Club.

Alan Keane said: “Nordic walking is a perfect form of exercise for a workplace health initiative, given the limited time available to staff. Once the technique is developed you can burn up to 40 per cent more calories than normal walking at the same pace in the same time.”

For details of Nordic and other outdoor activities visit: www.oldhamoutdoorpursuits.co.uk