Council launches free Couch to 5k programme

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has organised two ‘Couch to 5k’ programmes to encourage adults to build up physical activity in a gradual and healthy way with the aim of completing a 5k run/walk.

The “Couch to 5k” initiatives are funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA) as part of the Healthy Towns programme and are aimed at people aged 18 and over who find taking exercise difficult.

The free 12– week programmes will commence on Wednesday 13 January 2021 at Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, Enniskillen and Omagh Leisure Complex at 6.00pm. All sessions will last for one hour.

The programmes will be led by fully qualified Fermanagh and Omagh District Council fitness coaches who will provide professional training, support and advice to help participants achieve the 5k goal.

Launching details of the ‘Couch to 5k’ programme, the Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Chris Smyth said;

“The health and wellbeing of all the residents of the district is a key theme of the Fermanagh and Omagh District Community Plan 2030 and the Council is committed to improving the health and well-being of all our residents. This programme presents an ideal opportunity for residents to improve both their physical and mental health by taking exercise. The Council is once again delighted to be working in partnership with the Public Health Agency to deliver this programme aimed at encouraging people to take those first important steps towards a healthier lifestyle.”

Fiona McCann Health and Wellbeing Senior Officer with the PHA said:

“Many of us spend too much time sitting and don’t get enough physical activity. This programme is all about taking the first steps to get up and get active and making a positive change which can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing. The great thing about the Couch to 5k, is that you don’t need to be an experienced runner or have a high level of fitness to start. If you’re starting from scratch, you can work with the coaches to progress gradually, achieve your goal and feel the health benefits.

Being active is good for your mental health and can lift mood, reduce anxiety and help to protect against depression.

Being physically active is very important in maintaining a healthy weight and can reduce the risk of many diseases including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. The programme is a practical example of the how the Making Life Better Public Health framework is being applied at a community level.”

For further information including registration details please click on this link.

Registration is available from Monday 30 November 2020. Participants must complete a health screening assessment before admission to the programme.

For helpful tips and advice on getting active please visit www.choosetolivebetter.com.

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