Discover Edmonton Neighbourhoods through Free Walking Program
Posted by Justin Havre on Wednesday, August 31st, 2016 at 3:40pm.
Whether you've lived in Edmonton six months, six years or 60 years, chances are there are neighbourhoods in the city you've never fully explored. There may be people on your street that you've never even met. The Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues (EFCL) wants everyone to get out and explore the city's great communities while getting fresh and air exercise, too.
The EFCL recently obtained a grant from the province to start a walking program in various Edmonton communities. To date, 20 community leagues have signed up with volunteers receiving free leadership skills through a training program conducted by Urban Poling, which includes start-up kits. The kits include Nordic Poles which are used in this walking program. The poles aren't required, but they are a great benefit to Edmonton walkers once you get the hang of them. Part of the benefit of Nordic Poles is that they increase your stability and get your arms working in tandem with your legs, increasing cardiovascular benefits.
The EFCL also has resources for other walkers that aren't interested in pole walking.
This program is designed to bring enjoyment to walkers who may never have a reason to see other parts of the city. It's also an easier way to break the ice and meet neighbours and new friends and to take steps towards a growing trend in urban areas through out North America — good old fashioned walking.
The spinoff benefits of this EFCL program, which is appropriate for people of every age and ability, include:
- Improved health
- Introduction to resources within the community and local amenities
- Vitamin N (Nature) which is vital in reducing stress and improving well-being
- Reduced crime in the community with more residents active on the streets
Community leagues wishing to get involved in the EFCL's walking program get 10 pairs of Nordic Walking Poles, or Urban Poles, to get started. Urban Poling will also come out and conduct two free fitness training sessions with the poles in the community.
Leagues are encouraged to organize a day to try out the poles. By making an event of it, it will be easier to recruit volunteers and sign up walkers when they can physically see how enjoyable it is. Those who wish to become volunteers to leak walks will receive four hours of training. The EFCL has a dedicated coordinator eager to offer support and resources on an on-going basis. There will also be an opportunity take a refresher course later.
The next training opportunity is September 24 from 1 pm to 4 pm at Brookview Community League at 280 Bulyea Road NW in Edmonton. People interested in learning how to organize a walking group, motivate them and effective leadership in the group are welcome to contact the EFCL to sign up.
The Edmonton community leagues currently participating in the walking program are open to any resident wishing to come along for the fun: