AN exciting project aimed at promoting physical activity as part of a healthier lifestyle went under the spotlight during a meeting in Tavistock last week. The 5x30 project covers 118 parishes in Mid and West Devon and hopes to encourage all sectors of the community to aim for the World Health Organisation?s guidelines of taking part in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least five times a week. Kate Wright, the 5x30 community activator for the Tavistock area, told members at last week?s meeting of the town council that this did not mean everyone should be donning running shoes and pounding the streets. ?It doesn?t have to be doing an organised sport, it could be just doing the housework more energetically, it?s about encouraging people to have a more active lifestyle,? said Kate, who said her role was to give advice and support to groups and individuals on taking up new activities. Kate said 5x30 was also able to offer grants to groups wanting to take up activities ? for example, if a group wanted to take up basketball but did not have the money to hire a hall. ?There is also a training fund, for people who want to train and offer services back to the community and a transport and access fund, which maybe could help a group which wants to play badminton but has to travel to a village four or five miles away,? said Kate. She said 5x30 was aimed at everyone but there were five particular target groups ? the over 50s, people with mental health problems, vulnerable young people, the overweight and obese and people on low incomes. Kate said she had been meeting with local fitness instructors who wanted to reach new groups and she had been approached by individuals wanting to find new activities to suit their needs. She was also working with local organisations and community groups to help and support their ideas for physical activity. Kate said there were endless possibilities and opportunities for taking more exercise, from something as simple as walking the dog that bit faster or mowing the lawn with greater gusto, to taking up sailing, swimming or skateboarding. The associated health benefits were also impressive, from the physical in terms of weight control and increased energy, to the mental through heightened self-esteem, self confidence and an improved social life. Cllr Caroline Keane, town mayor, said the benefits of a healthier lifestyle through increased physical activity was something everyone should take seriously. ?I know life in the council can tend to be a bit sedentary,? said Cllr Keane, who pointed out that at least some members were taking part in the parish bowls competition as part of Tavistock Carnival week. l Any individuals or groups who would like help or advice in starting a new activity or who would like more information about 5x30 should call Kate Wright on 07920 786505 or email [email protected]">[email protected]
