Quotes - Active Cumbria

"The Forestry Commission's network of forests and woodlands across Cumbria mean that ideal clean green spaces to get out and enjoy physical activity are never far away.

"Whether it's walking, cycling or just enjoying the great outdoors, every little helps!"

Penny Oliver, from the Forestry Commission Cumbria

"Most people are particularly inactive because it is the easiest thing to do. Our lifestyles are such now that we need to make deliberate decisions to be active. We need to take the initiative because it is too easy for most people to watch TV.
The range of impacts on health is huge. Take coronary heart disease - even for people who are not overweight, there is more risk of having heart disease if you are not active."

Cathy Wynne, Associate Director of Public Health Partnerships at NHS Cumbria

"Another dimension to being active is the positive impact it has on mental health.
"It can help people with mild depression or anxiety and we think it helps protect against dementia.
"Often it is about getting out and about and that helps release endorphins, the chemicals that make us feel good about ourselves."

Cathy Wynne, Associate Director of Public Health Partnerships at NHS Cumbria

"Everyone should strive to keep themselves active by doing some form of physical activity or sport of their choice.
"There are huge health and social benefits to be gained by keeping active especially as we approach later life."

Eddie Edge, Partnership Director at Active Cumbria (formerly known as Cumbria Sport Partnership)

"Walking is a great way for people to get the exercise they need and as a result improve their health and wellbeing."

Jane Muller, Associate Director of Public Health at NHS Cumbria

"The people of Cumbria are blessed with an amazing natural environment. Forests like Whinlatter and Grizedale offer a vast amount of activities for families and individuals at various levels of fitness.

"There is more and more evidence to prove that recreational activities in forests account for significant reductions in illness and obesity."

Emma Martin, Marketing & Communications Officer at Active Cumbria (formerly known as Cumbria Sport Partnership)

"After the age of about 35, there's a sharp decline in the amount of physical activity men undertake and most cite pressure of work, stress, divorce and children as the causes. However, physical activity has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety as well as decreasing the risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes and can even improve sexual performance."

Dr Ian Banks, President, Men's Health Forum