Monday, 28 April 2008 12:55

Astrid Poei, 24 hours
http://v2.myvirtualpaper.com/doc/24hrs/toronto/2008042701/

Walking along a bridge in the Evergreen Brickworks, Grace Priolo smiled.

"I've been doing this for two years and this is so great," said Priolo, who grew up in Toronto's west end.  "I consider it discovering my own city."

More than 100 particpants marched through the city's green spaces yesterday for the kickoff of Ontario Walks 2008, a series of discovery walks.

From hiking through the bluffs to spotting rare wildlife, the event takes participants through some of Toronto's hidden gems.

"These are free guided walks, and why are they free?" founder Tom Fiore said, setting up his punchline.  "Just for the 'health' of it."

The 55-year old Toronto resident started the event last year after a trip to visit relatives in the United Kingdom.  He noticed that Europeans have adopted a lifestyle that includes walking as part of their daily routine versus North Americans who are accustomed to getting around in their cars.

The even has grown so much in popularity that he is leading walks in cities as far as London and Sudbury.

"That's why there's so many people out here," Fiore said.  "There's a need and a desire for this type of activity."

Participant and Ontario Medical Association board chair Dr. Suzanne Strasberg agreed.  

"Walking is a great way to start becoming physically active," Strasberg said.  "It's low impact, you can do it anywhere, anytime, for as long as you want or as short as you want.  It's a great way to get started."

Ontario Minister of Health George Smitherman participated in the event but left early for an emergency meeting at Queen's Park for TTC back-to-work legislation.

For more information visit ontariowalks.com.