Get Active Day 16 May 2012

Aim of the day: To encourage learners to improve their health and wellbeing through learning, particularly through physical activity

Research by the Centre for Research on the Wider Benefits of Learning and NIACE Dysgu Cymru shows that learning itself has proven health benefits, and this focus day provides an opportunity for learning providers to organise "feelgood" taster sessions on subjects such as healthy living, food and nutrition, getting active, alternative therapies, stress management, or living with specific health conditions. Signposting participants to further learning opportunities may help to improve their long-term health.

Ideas for events:

On your bike! - cycling workshops for all ages, including bike maintenance and safety

Walk and talk - guided walk of the local area, perhaps with a local historian or wildlife expert

Don't break your heart - information and advice on lowering the risk of heart disease

Wii Olympics - a day of Wii games in a community venue, with medals ceremonies, aimed at families and adults who do not currently take part in physical activities

Ready Steady Cook - producing healthy, nutritious meals with a limited budget or ingredients

Stressbusters - exploring stress triggers and introducing simple techniques to reduce stress

Links, networks and resources:

Change4Life - Resources, event ideas (particularly for families)

Bike4Life - Resources, event ideas (particularly for families)

Health Challenge Wales - Resources, event ideas

Sports Council for Wales -  Resources, event ideas

Lets Walk Wales - Walking projects across Wales

BBC Health - Resources and materials for taster sessions

Stop Smoking Wales - Resources and advice

ASH Wales - Resources, advice and training

Mentro Allan - Suite of lottery funded projects in specific areas of Wales