Coronavirus advice No. 12: Steps to keeping walking safe and enjoyable

Social distancing and respecting others are key measures if you are heading to one of the local walking tracks.

With sporting clubs, gyms and swimming pools all closed as part of a raft of measures to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, walking is becoming increasingly popular exercise alternative.

There has been an increase of usage in walking tracks, particularly the popular Red Arrow, which has now been restricted to a one-way circuit to help maintain social distancing measures.

People looking to take advantage of walking tracks are being asked to follow some simple steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

  • Respect other users
  • Keep your distance (remember the 1.5m social distancing measures)
  • Do not walk in groups
  • Try to pick times when tracks are less busy if possible

Residents can also consider some great alternatives to using the walking tracks.

Stay close to home: A walk in your suburb is convenient and you can always uses an app (such as Strava) to plot your route and share it with your friends on social media.

Pathways: Council has an extensive range of sealed paths that offer a great alternative to nature tracks. (www.cairns.qld.gov.au/region/things-to-do/cycle)

On your bike: Another option is bike riding and with an extensive network of cycle ways available, there are lots of great options and locations to try. (www.cairns.qld.gov.au/region/things-to-do/cycle)

Online exercise: There are many free online workouts available which you can do from the comfort of your own home or backyard.

Virtual fun: If you enjoy company when doing a workout, make use of technology and do it with friends using a video chat.

Visit Council’s dedicated coronavirus webpage for the latest information: cairns.qld.gov.au/council/covid19

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