8 May 2007

Urban ramblers step out for diabetes

Staff at the University of Dundee are being encouraged to ramble around the city this summer with a walking programme which has already seen thousands of positive steps taken.

The `Urban Ramblers' programme is designed by the University's Institute of Sports and Exercise to encourage staff to consider a short 20 - 30minute lunchtime walk as part of their normal working day. The Institute will offer a regular schedule of walks over the summer, with the first taking place on Wednesday May 9th with a special `10k Steps Today' event which will take staff on a walk around Magdalen Green.

"All the evidence shows that just taking a good lunchtime walk can have a considerably positive effect on productivity, mood, energy levels and job satisfaction," said Paul McPate, Assistant Director of the Institute for Sport and Exercise.

"We have been running the Urban Ramblers programme for the past two years and in that time we have been joined by hundreds of different staff from right across the University. Even in winter we've had good numbers coming out to join us but in launching the summer schedule we're hoping to see even more people get away from their desks at lunchtime and join the walks."

The "10K Steps Today" title is being used because 10,000 is the recommended step target for daily walking. A 30 minute lunchtime walk can help staff reach almost 50% of this target.

The walks have now turned into a social occasion for many staff as well as a chance to fit in daily exercise.

There is no fee for taking part in the Urban Ramblers programme but staff taking part in Wedneday's walk can give a donation to Diabetes UK, a major supporter of the world-leading diabetes research taking place at the University of Dundee.

Guided walks will be leaving the University's Tower Reception between 10 am and 5 pm on Wednesday.

Details of the "10K Steps Today" event on Wednesday can be found at: www.dundee.ac.uk/sportexercise/events/10KToday.htm

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk