Ballymoney goes Nordic!

LET’S go walking - Nordic style! That’s the message from Ballymoney Council’s Sonya Crawford.

Sonya, Countryside Access Officer with Ballymoney Borough Council, is actively encouraging the development of Nordic Walking in Ballymoney Borough. Having successfully completed the Instructor Course in accordance with International Nordic Walking Association Standards in March 2007, Sonya has recently gone on to achieve a CYQ Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Walking.

Supported by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) Health Improvement Service and the Northern Partnership for Physical Activity, Sonya has not only received all of the necessary training including a set of Nordic Walking Poles but has also received a grant of £600 to further develop a Nordic Walking Programme in the Ballymoney area.

As part of this season’s Countryside Walks Programme Sonya has organised two four week taster sessions to allow participants the opportunity to come along and have a go at Nordic Waking. These will take place on Wednesday mornings at the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre 10am-12pm commencing on May 8 (Course 1) and June 5 (Course 2).

Sonya said, “This is a unique opportunity to learn the basics of Nordic walking, an exciting outdoor walking technique using specially designed walking poles. Nordic walking burns on average 20% more calories than normal walking at the same speed, plus most people find it makes walking more comfortable. More calories, less effort!”

To book this gentle and enjoyable walking workout telephone 028 2766 0227 or call in person to Riada House, 14 Charles Street, Ballymoney.

Tuition will take place at the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre and in nearby Riverside Park, Ballymoney. Light refreshments/certificates will be provided and Nordic poles will be made available for this event.

There are only 12 places available per course costing £2 per person per session, so hurry before they are snapped up! For further information you can contact Sonya on 028 276 60236 (Mon-Thur.am) or email [email protected]