Viking Winter Walk Celebrates Healthy Living

Viking Winter Walk Celebrates Healthy Living

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

Shirley Quattek and Debbie Hill are walking their way to wellness and were happy to participate in the Viking Winter Walk Day on Feb. 3.

The event took place in the Carena Complex and drew the interest of several like-minded people. Viking-Beaver Family & Community Support Services Director Dawn Chrystian said the Winter Walk is a true “community partnership” between the Town of Viking, FCSS, Viking Community Wellness Society, Viking Senior’s Centre and Alberta Treasury Branch Financial Viking Branch.

Registered Dietitian Molly Bara and Health Promotion Facilitator Kendra Ferguson offered nutrition and healthy living advice and information. Both ladies said it was great to be invited to participate in the event, which they say is a great opportunity for connecting together.

Healthy eating and active living are their focus and they were both impressed with the indoor walking trail. Ferguson emphasized the importance of staying active and said it was great that local residents have the walking trail. Maintaining muscle mass is very important as people age, and they both said having enough protein is key in that regard.

Staying hydrated is also vitally important, and that water is the best source of hydration. Alberta Health Services offers a number of complimentary virtual workshops that provide practical ways to stay strong while aging.

Molly Bara, left, and Kendra Ferguson.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Chrystian is a member of the Viking Community Wellness Society and said the group’s major focus is developing and paving the outdoor walking trail and the organization has received some grant funding for the project. They completed the first leg of development, (896 metres) and are continuing to fundraise to add on to the trail in the future.

Town Councillor Clint Nearing said having an indoor walking track is great in the winter because it offers a safe and warm environment. Recently, the Town of Viking introduced a 55 plus program where individuals pay a one-time fee of $20. “We started that two months ago.”

Viking Winter Walk participants Shirley Quattek, left, and Debbie Hill.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

As well, when the facility is open to the public there is no fee to use the walking track. For access when the facility is not open to the public a membership is required.