13 March 2008

Get on Your Bike

People living in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust area are being encouraged to get on their bikes in a new ‘Cycling for Health’ scheme.

The first of its kind in Northern Ireland, ‘Cycling for Health’ has funded 30 bicycles for use by the local community. The bicycles are stored in three pods throughout the area; one at the tow path in Newry, one at Portadown Boat Club and the other in Loughgall Country Park. Each pod location has access to the National Cycle Network for Northern Ireland.

A local cycle co-ordinator has been nominated to support the scheme in each area and over 20 cycle leaders have been trained by Tricycle to National Standards.

Cycling for Health has been developed and funded by the Southern Area Physical Activity Implementation Group, which leads the implementation of the Northern Ireland Physical Activity Strategy in the area.

The introduction of Cycling for Health in the Craigavon area coincides with the launch of the Craigavon Borough Council Cycling Strategy. Cycling for Health will support the strategy's vision to have more people enjoying cycling safely in the area.

Sabrina Hinds, Physical Activity Co-ordinator for the Southern Health and Social Care Trust says: “Cycling is one of the most suitable, successful and accessible ways of increasing physical activity. It offers a great workout for the heart, tackling obesity, high blood pressure and cholesterol. It promotes mobility of the hip and knee joints and builds strong bones and muscles. As with all exercise, cycling also combats stress and can help you to sleep better.

“Cycling for Health gives people the chance to try cycling without having to buy a bike or helmet first. Also being part of a group on a bike ride with trained cycle leaders, allows participants to gain the confidence to take up cycling as a regular activity.”

It is hoped ‘Cycling for Health’ will be introduced to other council areas within the Southern Trust area.

For further information on Cycling for Health contact Sabrina Hinds, Physical Activity Co-ordinator, Southern Health and Social Care Trust Tel: 028 3741 2424.