Bracknell

Nearly a quarter of Bracknell Forest’s adults currently take part in the recommended amount of exercise every week - making the borough’s residents some of the most physically active in the country - according to new figures.

The Sport England Active People survey, carried out by Ipsos Mori, interviewed 1,000 people in every local authority in the country to find out the national picture of participation in sport and active recreation.

The survey showed that 24 per cent of Bracknell Forest’s adult population currently reach Sport England’s recommended three half-hour sessions per week of exercise. The figure is above the national average and compares favourably to other councils in the south east.

Increasing levels of physical activity is a core objective for Sport England, and the specific aim of the survey was to provide reliable data based on a representative sample of the population.

Bracknell Council is keen to increase the number of people taking part in sport and regular exercise in the borough, and wants to meet Sport England’s target of a one per cent increase in participation every year. It already runs six leisure facilities and works in partnership with voluntary sports clubs and schools to encourage residents to lead active lifestyles.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "Health and well-being forms an important part of our work at the Council, and clearly the more people taking part in physical activity the better. We all know that taking part in physical activity is better for an individual’s health, their families, the community and the health service.

"Although our residents are relatively good, the Council is committed to providing quality opportunities to allow more people to lead active lives.

"There are many different ways of getting involved in physical activity and we encourage local residents to visit the borough’s facilities to see what is available. Our excellent sport and leisure centres in Bracknell, Edgbarrow and Sandhurst provide a wide range of activities such as swimming, weight training, keep fit and five-a-side football. However, for residents who prefer more informal recreation then The Look Out is an excellent place to go walking, running or cycling. There are plenty of opportunities to take part in sport and active recreation in Bracknell Forest and I would encourage local residents to get involved now.”

For details about Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s leisure facilities visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be or call 01344 352000.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council