Inuvik is trying to keep residents active year-round by introducing a free community walking program at the Midnight Sun Complex.
Trace Bozarth, the town director of parks and recreation, said the idea comes from recreation coordinator Lori-Leigh Joy, who has been working to make better use of under-programmed spaces in the facility.
The walking program will officially begin on April 15, immediately after the close of the Muskrat Jamboree, which wraps up arena activities for the season.
With the ice out, the arena’s dry pad will then be opened up for residents in the off-season.
It will be open to all ages and offer two time slots: Monday to Friday from 9am to noon, and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30pm to 6pm. Coffee and music will be provided.
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“A lot more of our usage in the building is focused on events,” Bozarth told Cabin Radio.
“We’ve really been trying lately to fill in the gaps with the programming and we wanted to kind-of have something for every age group. That’s really where this came about.”
Bozarth acknowledged that launching in April may miss the peak demand from residents seeking indoor walking space during the colder months, but said it still offers a valuable option to people looking for accessible places to stay active.
“We hope that with this having a set date and time, it’ll encourage people to come and start walking and maybe get into a routine, and help build that sense of community as they invite other people to walk with them,” he said.
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“We understand that not everybody plays squash, not everybody is interested in coming up to the gym and weightlifting, and so we just wanted to make sure that we were targeting all the demographics in the community and just providing an outlet to anybody that wants to get out and get active.”
Engagement ‘makes our community unique’
The walking program is part of a broader push to diversify recreation opportunities in the community.
Bozarth said there has already been interest from local group care homes that support individuals with complex needs, giving those residents a safe and accessible place to engage in physical activity.
Joy said Inuvik has a strong and adaptable recreation scene. She believes the walking program will provide an “accessible and affordable” opportunity for residents of all fitness levels.
The town has also organized one-off events through March and April like a teen paint night, a “coffee, pie and cribbage” evening geared toward Elders, and a “walk-and-sip social.”
“Even with our northern climate and seasonal shifts, residents consistently participate in both organized programs and informal recreation throughout the year,” Joy said.
“What makes our community unique is the level of engagement. Families, Elders, youth, community supporters and partner organizations – all contribute to making recreation accessible and meaningful.
“We hope this program supports consistent physical activity, strengthens overall wellness and creates another welcoming space where residents can prioritize their health and connect with others.”
