At the age of 62 Pat Murphy has learned to ride a bike for the first time after gaining confidence and motivation from the borough’s “Your Choice” programme.
And it’s opened up a whole new healthier world. Pat, an IT support worker for Wigan and Leigh College, said: “I enjoyed the whole experience. We all know we should do things to get healthier but this gives you a little push and motivates you.
“Now my husband and I spend more time together going for bike rides.
“It’s inspired us to become more active and I think we’re incredible lucky in Wigan to have something like this.”
Pat was introduced to “Your Choice” at work with a one-to-one session where she discussed her goals and barriers to exercise. Throughout the programme she received support and attended classes before striking out on her own and realizing her own dream of riding a bike.
Alison Griffin, Active Living Support Officer for Your Choice said: “Like many people Pat just needed some support and motivation which we happily supplied.
“She’s now exercising regularly and enjoying herself at the same time.”
From the dance floor to the rugby pitch, from family cycling to street dance, “Your Choice” offers a range of fun and enjoyable sport, dance and fitness opportunities in accessible settings such as workplaces, colleges and community venues – at times more suitable to a 21st century lifestyle.
It’s part of a three year bid to increase participation in physical activity and reduce obesity rates and the risk of chronic diseases occurring.
In Wigan 31 per cent of the population is obese and just 21.2 per cent of the borough’s 300,000 residents participate in physical activity.
It’s being delivered by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust in partnership with NHS Ashton, Leigh and Wigan.
For more information visit Your Choice (external link) or call 01942 828569.
