Rambling on

Story: Graham Jones

Sheffield is the greenest city in the UK. Even within walking distance of Burngreave, there is a wide variety of landscapes, from the beauty of Roe Woods to the tranquil and pleasant walkways along the River Don.

Within the built-up areas, there is a lot of industrial, architectural, archaeological and natural history interest. Local bus services and trains enable everyone to get out to these great places.

There is no better way than to explore them on foot. Walking is an excellent form of exercise which can keep you fit and active and improve your mental health. Walking can also help recovery from and control of such illnesses as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, stroke, coronary heart disease, depression, stress, joint problems, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Walking is a cheap pastime – a pair of boots or strong shoes is your main requirement.

Walking groups & activities

To get you started, here are some details of a few local walking groups. They walk on different days of the week. The groups are invariably friendly and welcoming. Perhaps try a couple before you think about joining one.

Burngreave Ramblers

Easy to moderate rambling of 5-7 miles mainly in the Peak District on the 2nd Saturday of the month, 11am until 3.30pm. Meeting Point is Abbeyfield Park Gate, Abbeyfield Road. Contact Sue Wallis 0114 243 4266 or 07726 344 036

Pitsmoor Health walks

Short local walks every Tuesday, meeting at 1.30pm at Pitsmoor Surgery, Burngreave Road. Just come along.

Ramblers Association, Sheffield

Walks of varying length and strenuousness Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

http://www.sheffieldramblers.org

CHA Ramblers

Walks every Thursday and Saturday.

http://www.sheffield-cha.org.uk

Activity Sheffield Walkboost

A number of walks around our neighbourhood. Phone Activity Sheffield 0114 273 4266 or email activity.sheffield@sheffield.gov.uk

• Women only walk – Mondays 9-11am starting at Byron Wood School.

• Parents walk – Mondays 12.30-2pm starting at Firs Hill School.

• Themed Walk: Crabtree Ponds – 12th June, 6-8pm starting at the Vestry Hall.

• Themed walk: Secret Salmon Pastures – A walk along the River Don. 5th July, 11am, starting at the Vestry Hall

• Themed Walk: Five Weirs Wonder – 26th June, 1-3.30pm, starting at the Vestry Hall.

Health Trainers

Burngreave Health Trainers give advice and support on leading a healthier lifestyle.

Contact: Somshun Nessa on 07960 084 119 or email:

somshun.nessa@soarcommunity.org.uk

Of course, you can always improve your wellbeing by walking to the shops, to school or to work. Or just get off the bus a stop or two earlier. It's all up to you but do get walking and have fun.