Calderdale people are moving more than ever before.
That’s according to Sport England’s latest national Active Lives survey(external link), which revealed the highest ever level of physical activity and the lowest ever level of inactivity in Calderdale.
The borough is now below the England average for levels of inactivity, and is one of the best performers in West Yorkshire.
Between 2015/16 and 2018/19, levels of inactivity dropped by over 5%, meaning only 23% of local people are now inactive, doing fewer than 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week.
During the same time period, there was a 4% increase in the number of people being active, meaning 66% of people in Calderdale do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each week.
Paul Butcher, Calderdale Council’s Director of Public Health, said:
“We’re thrilled with the survey results. They show great progress towards our ambition for Calderdale to be the most active borough in the North by 2024, and mean our area is nearly the best in West Yorkshire.
“The most promising statistic for us is the fall in inactivity levels. Around 8000 more people have gone from being inactive to active over the past three years, which is amazing. Encouraging people who usually do no physical activity to move more is a major focus of our Active Calderdale work, as the health benefits are substantial.
“We want to give everyone the chance to be more active, and we’re working with communities on new, innovative ways for people to move more. It’s about making small, manageable changes and doing physical activities that we enjoy.”
The commitment to supporting people to increase their physical activity – by the Council, other organisations, community groups and individuals – is no doubt paying off. For more information about the work being done and how you can be more active, head to https://active.calderdale.gov.uk/ and follow #ActiveCdale on Twitter.
Moving more not only boosts our health and wellbeing; it also helps people connect with each other, improves air quality and protects our distinctive environment.
Active Calderdale supports the Vision2024 for Calderdale to be a place where people can reach their potential, where talent and enterprise can thrive, where people care for each other and are able to bounce back, and a place that stands out as a great destination to visit and where people can live a larger life. The year 2024 marks Calderdale’s 50th birthday. Where do we want to be by 2024? Join in the conversation on Twitter using #VisionCdale2024 and visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision