Kilkenny has seen a number of popular walking trails developed in recent years and people are being encouraged to hit the trails and reap the health benefits.
With kilometres of walking trails developed through scenic countryside across the county, including areas such as the Nore Valley, Jenkinstown woodlands, and the Castlecomer Discovery Park, trail walking is becoming an increasingly popular form of exercise.
In an effort to espouse the advantages of walking as a physical activity, an ‘introduction to trail walking’ workshop will be run in the Castlecomer Discovery Park on Saturday, November 27.
The workshop is being run by Trail Kilkenny, the Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership, and the health promotion department of the HSE South.
Geared specifically towards those with no experience of trail or hill walking, the workshop is designed to encourage people to get involved, covering the benefits, understanding the different types of trails, planning walking sessions, and getting the gear right.
There will also be some practical walking sessions led by an experienced instructor.
As well as providing a free form of physical activity, trail walking can act as an escape from the hustle and bustle, bringing walkers closer to nature, and is a safe and peaceful way of getting the recommended 30 minutes exercise each day.
According to the HSE, walking at a brisk pace for at least 30 minutes a day can help lower risk of heart disease and stroke, help maintain a healthy weight, and can reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The different textures and terrain of a trail challenges the body more than walking on a flat, even, surface, giving more health benefits.
The workshop will run from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, November 27, and will cost €5 per person, with places allocated on a first come, first served basis. For more information contact Niamh Spratt at Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership.
