Debate, Active Fredrikstad | A little is better than nothing

The activity week is underway. 10.–16. In May, the Aktivetitsuka is carried out by Aktive Fredrikstad together with a number of partners. The aim is to highlight some of the great things that Fredrikstad can offer in terms of activity enjoyment for people of all ages.

The activity week gives us the opportunity to reflect on how important it is to be a little active every day. Everyday activity can be as simple as walking, cycling to work, taking the stairs instead of the lift. This is something we can all do to increase movement in our everyday lives and combat sedentary lifestyles.

HERE YOU CAN FOLLOW THE ACTIVITY WEEK ON FB

In a society characterized by sitting still, I strike a blow for the everyday walk. I myself start each day with a walk with our family dog. Not surprisingly, I share this interest with many others in Fredrikstad. A survey by IPSOS from 2022 showed that walking is the activity most Fredrikstad people prefer.

The health authority’s recommendations of 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate to slightly strenuous activity per week may seem extensive, but this corresponds to approximately 20-40 minutes per day. Many of us are already active daily without realizing it. Even small steps in everyday life can have a big impact, all activity counts.

In other words, we don’t always need to train hard. With small changes in our daily routines, we can achieve major health benefits. A recent report from the Norwegian Directorate of Health shows that physical activity has an even greater positive effect on health than we previously assumed.[linkto[lenketil

Read the advice at Helsenorge on physical activity: Recommendations on physical activity

I myself am not too keen on counting minutes of activity, but as mentioned I like to go for a walk. Several studies have shown that staying in green areas, forests and nature has a positive impact on our mental and physical health. We feel calm, have better mental health and lower blood pressure. And in Fredrikstad we have very good opportunities for walking.

Fredrikstad municipality has a long coastline with a great coastal path. Did you know that the municipality has made 52 suggested tours, one for each week throughout the year, as a gift to the people of Fredrikstad? Here you will find experiences from the entire municipality, both natural gems, city center areas and places you may not have known about.

On Saturday 23 March, the Stolpe hunt for Fredrikstad and Hvaler started! Explore beautiful areas such as Sentrum, Gamlebyen, Fredrikstadmarka, Sprinklet at Gressvik, Mærrapanna at Slevik, and Spjærøy at Hvaler. Fredrikstad Ski Club invites you to tour orientation. The posts will be hanging out until 30 September.

As mayor, I hope all residents will join me in this effort to make Fredrikstad a more active and healthy municipality. The activity week is underway. 10.–16. May is off to a good start! Let’s together seize the opportunity to change our habits and create a healthier lifestyle.

A little is better than nothing!