About 130 walkers completed ‘Meters with Diabetes’ today in and around Zuidlaren. The walking event concludes a 20-week challenge in which diabetics and other walkers who can use it gradually try to become fitter.
The National Diabetes Challenge started in the spring and has its origins in the south of the country. But thanks to the collaboration of Doctor Drenthe and Sport Drenthe, more than 300 walkers participated in our province this year. “These are people who are overweight, have diabetes or have another vulnerability,” outlines Esther Witte on behalf of Sport Drenthe. “Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, they started training for a goal. Today they want to achieve that goal.”
Participants can choose from distances of 2.5, 5 and 10 kilometers. Not necessarily very long distances, but often quite an achievement for this target group. The beginning is especially difficult, says Witte. “You notice that many people find it difficult to get moving. That has a major impact on their health. They find it exciting to start.”
But once it’s running, the effects are clearly visible. Take Harm Uringa from Emmen, for example. He has type 2 diabetes and was taking quite a few medications before participating in the Diabetes Challenge. “The doctor advised me to start walking,” says Uringa. “I did that and I haven’t taken any medication since.”
An additional advantage is that Uringa has lost some kilos. “That mainly has to do with walking and of course a healthier lifestyle around it.” After weeks of training, he is not worried about the five kilometers he runs today. “It will be alright.”