Minister signs the pledge

The Scottish Government minister signed the Get Active Lanarkshire pledge during a recent visit to the county.

She also gave her backing to a mass public activity day to be held in Strathclyde Country Park on Saturday, June 1 between noon and 5pm.

She said: “Physical activity is easy, fun and the most effective way to better health, reducing the risk of a multitude of health conditions.

“Any activity, like walking, gardening or cycling, is better than none and makes you feel happier, less stressed and more energised.

“We want to capture the excitement of next year’s Commonwealth Games and see a lasting legacy that helps people to lead healthier lifestyles.”

She added: “Get Active Lanarkshire is a great initiative that will encourage and support people to do even small amounts of physical activity and I am happy to sign the pledge on behalf of the Scottish Government.”

Get Active Lanarkshire is an exciting collaboration between NHS Lanarkshire, North and South Lanarkshire councils, South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC), North Lanarkshire Leisure (NLL) and Healthy Working Lives (HWL).

Gabe Docherty, NHS Lanarkshire health promotion manager, said: “This is a hugely ambitious project which aims to encourage every Lanarkshire resident – young and old – to think about how they can increase their level of physical activity by even a small amount.

“The Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014 will see huge interest in sport and all the partners want to use this tremendous opportunity to encourage more Lanarkshire people, to get more active, more often.”

To sign the ‘Get Active Lanarkshire’ pledge visit, www.getactivelanarkshire.co.uk.