The Dales is the fifth healthiest place in the UK

Grand Opening: The new Arc Leisure Matlock site.

Sport England has revealed research showing that the area has the fifth highest percentage of people exercising regularly in the country.

In response to the news, Derbyshire Dales District Council has published a free activity guide to help local people maintain their fitness in the New Year.

According to research, the last two weeks of January are the most popular for starting - and stopping - New Year get-fit pledges, so the guide, called Fitter, Healthier, Happier, is well timed.

The district council’s sports development team is determined the Derbyshire Dales can further enhance its status as one of the most active in England throughout 2014.

Activities included in the Fitter, Healthier, Happier programme include walking, jogging, cycling, exercise classes, orienteering and many events and courses.

Chairman of Derbyshire Dales District Council’s Community Committee, Councillor Jennifer Bower said: “This programme is designed to get people into exercise, but in a friendly setting and a progressive way, building up fitness levels gradually instead of expecting too much too soon.

“Sport England research reveals the Derbyshire Dales has the fifth highest percentage of adults taking exercise at least three times a week in the whole of England, and local woman are top of the league as the most active, which is great news. But we have absolutely no intention of resting on our laurels - we want to help even more local people get fit and healthy this year. All our activities are extremely good value, and some are completely free.”

All sessions are led by qualified instructors and leaders and many offer opportunities to socialise over a drink afterwards. People can simply turn up on the day - there’s no need to book.

For more information download the guide at www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/fhh, email [email protected] or call 01629 761380.

How do you like to exercise in the Dales? Whether it’s cycling around Carsington Water, taking a swim at the Arc Leisure Centre or climbing at Curbar Edge, let us know by emailing [email protected]