Council Launches ‘Step into 2020’ for Better Health

Monday 1 October marked the launch of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s ‘Step into 2020’ programme at the Newry Leisure Centre.

This new programme will take place weekly on Mondays and Thursdays from 12.30pm- 1.30pm and will focus on everyone involved increasing their daily step count under the expert supervision and encouragement of the Newry Leisure Centre’s Everybody Active Coaches. Pedometers are available to everyone who is taking part in the programme and there will also be optional weigh-ins on Thursdays.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin, who launched the new programme said, “Step into 2020 is an inclusive programme for all and I would encourage everyone to come and take part.  

“Lack of physical activity is one of the biggest causes of illness in Northern Ireland and increasing physical activity levels across the whole of our population is a major aim for everyone. The most recent recommendations by the four UK Chief Medical Officers indicate that adults aged 19-64 years should do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each week.

“The Step into 2020 programme will assist those participating to reach the recommendation which is a fantastic step in the right direction for anyone”.

The Council’s Health and Wellbeing department have been working in partnership with the Everybody Active Team in developing this programme and are committed to providing opportunities for everyone to improve their mental health and physical fitness. The department is encouraging participants to work on achieving their daily mile.

Over the winter months most sessions will take place inside the modern indoor facilities of Newry Leisure Centre; come springtime, there will be opportunity to take this programme outside.

To avail of this programme all you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and motivation to Step into 2020 in your best health. A small fee of £1 per class is to be paid at reception.