Monday, 3 April 2017

Everyone in Gippsland– no matter their age or ability – is being challenged to improve their fitness and health and commit to 30 minutes of physical activity a day in April.

Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria Region, today called on all Gippslanders to sign up for this year’s Premier’s Active April challenge that kicks off on Saturday.

Getting involved in Active April can be as simple as taking a regular walk, riding to school or work, exercising during your lunch break, getting out in the garden or joining your local sports club.

You don’t have to be an elite athlete – anyone can sign up and make the change
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By taking the first step, you can work your way up to an exercise or a sport that you love.

In 2016, 5,726 people in Gippsland signed up to Active April. Women and girls are being urged to continue the charge and out-do the men and boys.

People can sign up to Active April as an individual or you can get your friends, family or work colleagues together to form a team.

Last year more than 104,000 people made a pledge to do 30 minutes of exercise each day in April. In 2016, nearly 11,000 teams joined and motivated each other to stay active.

In 2017, there is a new mobile app that gives participants the chance to log their physical activity, the time they spend exercising, and allows groups to track and compare their progress

Gippsland Councils will be coordinating a range of local events and activities where people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can join in and at the same time do their 30 minutes of activity.

Sign up today at www.activeapril.vic.gov.au or join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Registrations are open until April 30.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing:

“Active April is a fun and free way to get more active and healthy, and there are some great special offers and prizes along the way.”

“It’s amazing how exercise can turn things around for people – Active April is a great place to start.”

“I urge everyone in Gippsland to get involved. Sign up today, join in the fun and have a go.”