County Limerick and Limerick City Sports Partnerships have arranged for a number of walks to take part throughout Limerick City and County up to March 2012.

All walks are free of charge and led by IHF Walking Leaders. Join in these walks at your own pace and you'll quickly feel better and get fitter with regular walking.

A regular programme of walking...

• Keeps your heart strong
• improves yoru muscle strength
• helps to manage your weight
• makes you feel good
• But above all - walking is fun!

Download the Newcastle West Sli na Slainte Route (210 Kb)

You'll find Slí na Sláinte walking routes all over Ireland. They are marked by bright and colourful signposts which are not numbered are are situated at 1km intervals.

Slí na Sláinte, meaning "Path to Health", is a simple innovative scheme developed by the Irish Heart Foundation to encourage people of all ages and abilities to walk for leisure and good health.

It uses attractive signage at kilometre intervals on established walking routes to help walkers identify the distance they walk. Slí na Sláinte is designed to encourage people to walk more frequently and to enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

Here are a few useful tips to enjoy your walk and keep your heart healthy:

• If you're not in the habit of taking regular exercise, start slowly, enjoy being out and about and gradually build up to the recommended 30 minutes walking a day.
• Drink a glass of water before and after your walk and, don't forget, wear good, comfortable shoes.
• Gradually warm up at the beginning and cool down towards the end.
• Remember, loose clothing is more comfortable and in winter, choose layers rather than thick, chuncky clothes.
• Why not try to incorporate walking into your daily activities. Walk to work, to meetings, or the shops. The list is endless...
• If you have a history of heart trouble or serious illness, talk to your doctor before you start.
• Stop if you experience unusual symptoms such as chest pain dizziness, breathless, and consult your doctor.
• Why not invite your friends, family or work colleagues to join you when you go walking.

For further details, please contact the County Limerick Local Sports Partnership on +353 61 496463 or Limerick City Sports Partnership on +353 61 468542.

For a full list of Limerick walking events please see here.