The initiative is a partnership between local councils, communities, voluntary organisations and workplaces to encourage people to get physically active, helping promote physical and mental well-being. 

Lesley Finlay, physical activity co-ordinator with the Western Trust’s Health Improvement Department, said: “Our bodies are designed to move, so being physically active is essential for maintaining good health. Unfortunately, only 35 per-cent of adults in Northern Ireland are currently meeting the Chief Medical Officer recommendations of 150 minutes or 2.5 hours of moderate intensity physical activity like brisk walking every week. 

“Physical Activity Fortnight is about encouraging everyone to build more activity into their daily routine by simply sitting less and moving more. We are also challenging people to make time to be active by trying recreational activities like walking, cycling, gardening, dancing, swimming or joining a local activity class.” 

The Trust have developed activity programmes for each area, listing lots of free and low cost physical activity opportunities and events throughout Physical Activity Fortnight. Activities have been organised by the lead partners and other community and voluntary sector organisations and workplaces to encourage their communities and staff to get active. 

There are family friendly events and activities for people new to physical activity, older people and people with a disability including walking, cycling, swimming, running, boccia, yoga and tennis. You can download a programme at www.westerntrust.hscni.net/about/3330.htm