SportMedBC is partnering with Walk BC to provide free Regional Training Workshops on “Learning to take the Lead” for Walk Leaders and Programmers in communities across BC.
12 communities have participated in the training for 2008/09. From Burnaby to Salmon Arm, Victoria to Castlegar and beyond, program presenters have been sharing their expertise and knowledge with those eager to learn.
Lindsay Richardson, Walk BC Coordinator says “Walk BC is a joint initiative between the Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC & Yukon and the BC Recreation & Parks Association. We encourage individual and group walking to increase overall health in communities through a range of programs that promote walking. The response to Walk BC training and events has been fabulous! People are ready to get walking to improve their health.”
The Program covers everything from marketing strategies to practical programming ideas, and is targeting walk leaders and programmers, inspiring them to plan and develop walking events in their own communities.
The training workshops continue on the fall, and Walk BC grant applications of up to $5,000 are currently being approved for this next stage of training. Further funding opportunities will be available later in the year – keep an eye on the Walk BC website for updates.
Much of the trick to sticking with a physically active life style is mental. Larry Birckhead from Habit Shift offers leaders practical tactics they can employ to nurture the initial motivation that brings participants to walking programs. Since there is considerable data suggesting that most first time attendees aren’t ready to make life style changes, information on how to help them lock in the changes can be critical.
Lynn Kanuka, SportMedBC Run/Walk Program Coordinator adds “the beauty of walking is that anyone can do it. This program targets those that are inactive, rather than already active. It’s fantastic!”
