Charity invites people to get fit and fundraise in 2013 (From Stourbridge News)

Charity invites people to get fit and fundraise in 2013

12:00pm Monday 7th January 2013 in News

DIABETES UK is encouraging people across the borough to join its Step It Up challenge to get fit in 12 weeks.

The challenge offers a free training plan to help people get healthier and be able to walk, jog or run 5km by Easter.

Those getting involved can choose an individual fitness goal or to take part in a Diabetes UK 5km walk or run.

Participants - who are invited to get sponsored to raise money for the charity - will also receive information on healthy eating and weekly emails and updates to encourage them to complete the challenge.

Jo Oldfield, Diabetes UK’s fundraising manager in the Midlands, said: “We are all guilty of making New Year resolutions and letting them fall by the wayside.

“I hope with our Step It Up challenge we can support and encourage people to complete the 12-week training plan, with the added incentive that they can raise funds for Diabetes UK.

“Fundraising can be through sponsorship to reach a fitness goal, or by taking part in one of our organised events when the challenge is completed.

“Diabetes is the fastest growing health threat in the UK and Diabetes UK is the leading charity that cares for, connects with and campaigns on behalf of people affected by and at risk of diabetes.

“Up to 80 per cent of cases of Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented.

We aim to reduce the rise of Type 2 diabetes in communities across the country by encouraging people to adopt a healthy lifestyle and the Step It Up challenge is one of the ways people can do this.”

To register to take part or for more information email Midlands@diabetes.org.uk or call 01922 614500.