Start stretching your legs, the Pomeroy Sport Centre is hosting another walking challenge.

This year pits pedestrians against the Trans Canada Trail, which also includes an optional swimming portion. The walking goal is 1,220 laps of the Northern Vac Track for a total of 415 kilometres over 90 days. Swimmers will stroke their way through 1,320 laps, or 33 kilometres of the Peace Leisure Pool. Pomeroy recreation coordinator Paola Banks explained why the challenge has been popular year after year.

“They’re really popular because of the weather,” Banks said. “We’re going to have two big maps for people to use as a reference, so people can see where they are. We’ll have sheets available for people to take home so they can track their own kilometres and a binder that will have the walking track and swimming pool with a space for everyone to track themselves and leave it in the binder if they want.”

The walking challenge is free, but swimmers will have to pay regular admissions to the pool.

Banks said the challenges are not just well-attended. In fact, they are back by popular demand.

“One of the reasons is people have been asking for challenges, they really like to have a goal and be motivated, something that gives them a bit of a push,” Banks said. She added corporate groups can join together, too. “A lot of companies like to participate because they make their own team and encourage their employees to participate. It’s healthier to have a relationship with your coworkers and do something social. It’s also a great way to meet people if you’re new to town.”

There is a competitive aspect, with the challengers who place first, second and third up for prizes. But Banks said not to focus too much on winning.

“We just want to encourage people to be active and have their own goals and motivate themselves during the long winters we have.”

For more information or to sign up, call 250-794-3262 or visit fortstjohn.ca.