DC Leisure to host “Learn to Nordic Walk” programme at three trial sites

DC Leisure to host “Learn to Nordic Walk” programme at three trial sites

 

DC Leisure will host a trial “Learn to Nordic Walk” programme run by Nordic Walking UK (NWUK) in three locations from September 2010. Via a network of qualified NWUK instructors, the programme will be available to all visitors to Winchester, Wiltshire and Fleming Park sites.

 

 “Learn to Nordic Walk” is a set programme from NWUK that teaches both the techniques of Nordic Walking and how the activity can be used to achieve desired fitness and weight loss results. NWUK instructors will provide tasters, technique courses and a range of motivational programmes including workout walks, wellness walks and adventure walks. Those who complete the programme will receive a competence card which allows them to join led Nordic walks with participating NWUK instructors and venues all over the UK.

 

The Nordic Walking sessions will be available to both members and the public in a bid to attract those who may not usually respond to typical fitness offerings, in line with DC Leisure’s goal: “More people, more active, more often”.

 

Gill Stewart, Director of Nordic Walking UK, said: “It’s great to be able to deliver the ‘Learn to Nordic Walk’ programme at three of DC Leisure’s fantastic sites. Nordic Walking fits perfectly with DC Leisure’s focus on communities and wellness.”

 

Rich Millard, Client Relations and Sports Development Director at DC Leisure said: “We wanted to broaden our offerings to include outdoor fitness activity that would take full advantage of our sites’ beautiful locations. All those who try Nordic Walking agree that being outdoors is energising and that they feel fantastic afterwards!

 

“If the trial at the Fleming Park, Winchester and Wiltshire sites is successful, we will look into rolling Nordic Walking programmes across more DC Leisure sites.”

 

Nordic Walking was originally used by cross-country skiers as a way to stay fit during the summer. It uses specially designed poles to engage all the body’s major muscle groups and can burn up to twice as many calories as ordinary walking. The poles reduce the pressure on joints and the gentle upper body movement can ease back and neck pain. The poles also function to propel walkers along so walking feels easier, faster and more fun.

 

Nordic Walking is the fastest growing fitness activity in the world, with over 10 million enthusiasts now regularly taking part. It is suitable for all ages and fitness levels and is being used for weight loss, rehabilitation and sports specific training all the over the UK.

 

 

Nordic Walking facts

• It can burn nearly twice as many calories as ordinary walking
• It reduces the strain on knees and joints
• It uses over 90% of the major muscles
• Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
• Can be done anywhere – urban or rural
• Great for back, neck and shoulder problems
• Outdoor exercise is proven to have a positive effect on the state of mind
• Over 1,500 NWUK Instructors offer courses and sessions in the UK
• Nordic Walking has attracted extensive national media coverage in 2009 see http://www.nordicwalking.co.uk/?page=more_info&c=21 for examples from BBC to the Telegraph

 

Words: 511

 

 

DC Leisure company background

A leader in the development and management of leisure facilities in partnership with local authorities with a 13 year track record, DC Leisure is currently the largest leisure contractor in the UK, employing over 6,000 people and managing 118 sites on behalf of over 30 clients.

 

By developing dynamic and responsive partnerships with council clients, DC Leisure optimises the performance of public leisure facilities so that they can better serve their local community and achieve both economic and social objectives. DC Leisure’s primary aim is to get: ‘More People, More Active, More Often’.

 

DC Leisure was named the Fitness Industry Association’s Leisure Centre Operator of the Year for 2008/09 and again for 2009/10. The company also won the Inclusive Fitness Initiative’s Award for Demonstrating Corporate Commitment in 2008 and ISPAL’s (The Institute of Sport, Parks and Leisure) Active Health and Physical Activity Programme Award in 2009.

 

For more information and a list of centres managed by DC Leisure visit www.dcleisure.co.uk

 

PRESS:

 

Leila Dukes

Promote PR Ltd

Copthall House, St Ives Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1QS

t: 01628 676754

m: 07944 158787

f: 01628 676 786

e: leila@promotepr.com