Ramblers Scotland are backing the call for workers to pull on their trainers. Photo: miketually

The Ramblers in Scotland have added their weight to a campaign to get the whole of Scotland in its trainers this week.

The Scottish Government wants its nation’s companies to encourage employees to wear their training shoes to work on Thursday as it officially takes up the Commonwealth Games baton with the closing of the controversy-ridden Delhi games.

Wear Your Trainers to Work aims to highlight the importance of including 30 minutes of activity, five times a week and how easily this can be incorporated into the normal working day. The message is to find out how easy it is to walk to work, walk home, go out for a walk at lunchtime or walk to your meetings through the day.

Ramblers Scotland development officer Helen Todd said: “On Thursday, with the closing ceremony for the Delhi Commonwealth Games, the countdown to Glasgow 2014 starts.

“We are backing the Scottish Government’s call for everyone to get fit for 2014 by walking more.  From Shetland to Stranraer we can all make sure that we are walking at least 30 minutes, five days a week.

“We want all businesses in Scotland to demonstrate their commitment to our Games by asking all employees to wear trainers to work on Thursday. Everyone can keep fit throughout the winter months by making time for a short walk each lunchtime.

“2014 is a golden opportunity for Scotland to get on to its feet and prove how to become an active nation.”