BOSSES at Inverclyde Leisure are urging people to 'march into spring' whilst gyms are shut due to Covid-19.

They've joined forces with the World Walking app to kick off an epic virtual challenge to keep local people active as restrictions get set to continue during the month of March.

The team are planning on 'travelling' across the continents to reach a target of at least 30 million steps.

They hope individuals, families and groups will get on board.

David McCorkindale of IL said: "The beauty of walking is that it’s free, it doesn’t require a lot of special equipment and can be done almost anywhere.

"Walking is a great way to improve or maintain your overall health.

"Just 30 minutes every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, assist in the reduction of excess body fat and boost muscle power and endurance.

"It can also help reduce anxiety and depression.

"We are excited to organise this challenge in partnership with World Walking and we hope that as many people as possible can participate."

Bosses have drafted in the help of local man Duncan Galbraith, founder of the app which has been operating since 2013.

To begin, the route will go from Waterfront Leisure Centre to London - a total of one million steps.

With over 10,000 people already registered on his app, Duncan hopes walkers of all ages will make use of the tool.

He said: "On the app you can track your progress individually as well as seeing the total steps of everyone taking part to keep everyone motivated.

"You can also visit and learn about famous landmarks on the route you choose and you will earn virtual rewards and badges.

"I'm very glad that Inverclyde Leisure are making use of the World Walking app to do this."

Once the initial route is complete, Inverclyde Leisure will set the group other targets through some of the amazing walking routes throughout the world to see how many steps can be completed.

Jim Lyon, operations manager at Inverclyde Leisure, added: "It's something fun, easy and accessible and people of all ages can enjoy it.

"Our staff are taking part and we hope as many people as possible will join in.

"You can walk, jog or run - anything that gets you active and outside."

To find out more about the challenge and sign up, visit www.inverclydeleisure.com/blog/march-2021-community-walking-challenge

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WALK THIS WAY Left to right ARE Jim Lyon, Bobby McVitie, David McCorkindale and Duncan Galbraith.