A new series of regular weekly buggy walks has started in north Bristol.
The first walk took place in Stoke Gifford on Monday 5th January, where a group of 15 local buggy walkers set off from The Old School Rooms Coffee Shop on The Green.
The new buggy walking group will meet at 10am each week in alternating areas of north Bristol. The first Monday of each month will see the group set off from Stoke Gifford, the second from Wallscourt Farm Academy in Cheswick, the third from Coniston Community Centre in Patchway and the fourth from the Bristol Concorde Pub in Filton.
The walks will be run by volunteer mums who have been working with South Gloucestershire’s Walking For Health officer to develop them. Each walk will be led by a trained leader and will last for approximately 45 minutes.
South Gloucestershire’s Director of Public Health Dr Mark Pietroni said:
“A brisk walk is the perfect exercise. It’s a free, sociable, easy activity that’s accessible to most people. In just a short time, a small amount of regular exercise can significantly improve a person’s health, well-being and confidence.”
“Many walkers feel that the camaraderie and network of support that they experience through group walking is equally, if not more, important to them than the physical health benefits.”
South Gloucestershire Walking For Health Officer, Christina Wheeler said:
“Buggy Walks are a great way for parents, grandparents or child minders to meet on a regular basis to take part in simple and effective exercise.”
“It is very common for new mothers to experience the ‘baby blues’ after their child is born. For a small minority these feelings can continue and develop into post-natal depression. Attending regular buggy walks has been shown to improve mental wellbeing and help reduce the likelihood of post-natal depression.”
Following each walk, there will be an opportunity for participants to enjoy a chat over a cup of tea or coffee.
Walkers are advised to arrive 10 minutes early, wear comfortable shoes, and to bring along plenty of water.
For further information, telephone 01454 863951, 0782 4081046 or email Christina.Wheeler@southglos. gov.uk
See also the North Bristol Buggy Walks page on Facebook.
Photo: Buggy walkers outside The Old School Rooms in Stoke Gifford.
