By ANNABELLE
DICKSON
For most people, reaching 70 is a sign that it is time
to take life at a more leisurely pace – but a north Norfolk grandmother
is taking major strides to step things up.
Being 72 has proved to be no barrier for Sylvia Parker, of West Runton,
near Sheringham, who has just embarked on a new career as a fitness instructor.
Recently qualified as the oldest Nordic walking instructor in the UK,
the determined and sprightly pensioner has found a new lease of life and
is now conducting classes, just four years after she started the sport
herself.
Before she took up walking, Mrs Parker worked indoors for 15 hours a day,
was 3st heavier and could not walk 500 yards.
But spurred on by news that a granddaughter was on the way, she decided
something would have to be done or she was not going to see her grow up.
After taking up power-walking classes with her friend, she quickly became
hooked.
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When Nordic walking came to Norfolk in 2004,
she switched to the sport, which was started in the 1930s
by the Finnish ski team to keep fit during the summer.
Using poles, Nordic walking works the upper and lower body at the same
time and improves the heart and lungs.
“If you are using the correct technique it is the best way
to get fit; it is just so good for you,” said Mrs Parker.
Having lost 3st only a year after starting, Mrs Parker took up the challenge
of becoming an instructor. She wanted to help her mentor, Annie Briggs,
who runs the Blakeney Fitness Park, where she trains.
After a complete transformation, Mrs Parker said that she now never sits
down. “There is no reason why these days you can’t be 70-years-young.
You can be fit, healthy and active and enjoy life.”
Her family has since warmed to the sport, and, with her daughter already
having taken it up, Mrs Parker is now trying to persuade her partner to
join in. One day she even hopes to get her three-year-old granddaughter
Lily-Grace involved.
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