The government is trying to persuade people in the Isle of Man to get fit.

An arm of the Department of Education and Children called Manx Sport and Recreation (MSR) is currently publicising two initiatives.

They are ’Bike 4 Life’ and ’Healthy 4 Life’ and they are part of the ’Programme for Government’ that our political leaders are now following.

That ’promises to increase the number of people exercising and decrease the number falling ill from preventable illnesses, many of which are caused by inactivity’.

Bike 4 Life offers weekly sessions around the raceway at the National Sports Centre in Douglas.

Ari Brooks, sports development officer with MSR, said: ’We welcome those with long-term health issues and those recuperating and trying to regain fitness after illness or operation.

’Bike 4 Life is also suitable for those with disabilities and with reduced/little mobility, including wheelchair users, amputees and those with coordination problems.

’We provide a range of inclusive and specially adapted bikes including tandems, trikes, special needs bikes, hand cycles, quad bikes and mountain bikes for participants to use.

’Bike 4 Life also welcomes individuals who have always wanted to cycle but are wary of riding on roads,’ Ari continued. ’The NSC offers a safe and enjoyable cycling environment for those riders who want to gain more confidence while socialising with family and friends.

’Cycling has many physical and psychological benefits. It is a healthy, low impact exercise that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy.’

Sessions take place every Tuesday from April 25 to August 29. They run from 1pm to 6pm.

There are no sessions during TT fortnight.

It costs £2 per session to take part plus £2 to hire a bike. Participants are welcome to bring their own bikes.

For more information about Bike 4 Life, contact Ari Brooks on 688575 or email Ari [email protected]

Healthy 4 Life’s initiative to encourage people to get fit while enjoying the Manx countryside starts again on Friday, April 28.

Green Walk and Talk is a variation on the Walk and Talk event held weekly at the National Sports Centre.

Participants undertake a different short walk each week throughout the summer.

Lesley Patterson, of MSR, said: ’Green Walk and Talk is a great way to improve fitness and mood while socialising and enjoying a scenic walk, perhaps somewhere you haven’t visited before.

’Walks are guided by fitness instructors, are no longer than two miles in length and are mostly on the flat, although sometimes off road.

’They are open to people of any age who want to get fitter and healthier and explore the island. Whole families can join in and appreciate the benefits of exercise in beautiful settings.

’The walks will benefit anyone seeking to regain fitness after illness or injury.’

Dates, times and locations of walks and advice about walking can be viewed by visiting www.gov.im and searching for Green Walk and Talk. Details are also at the Isle of Man Government Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal and at the NSC and regional swimming pools.

Fourteen of the 15 walks cost just £2 to take part in, including a cup of tea/coffee at the end.

The final walk on August 18 is around the Curraghs Wildlife Park, where a small admission charge applies.

’Those completing 10 or more walks will be admitted to the park free of charge if taking part on August 18,’ said Lesley. ’Those who complete all 15 walks receive a prize and a certificate, too.’

For more information, contact Lesley Patterson, Healthy 4 Life coordinator, on 686852 or email [email protected]