In Glace Bay and New Waterford, N.S., The Salvation Army is taking steps to help people become more active in their lives.

The Glace Bay and New Waterford Corps run a popular workout program called “Walk Away the Pounds,” a ministry that cares for both the soul and the body.

The program, which has been going strong for over six years now, is held six times per week—four times at New Waterford Corps and two times at Glace Bay Corps. It follows a DVD workout program called Walk Away the Pounds and, because it takes place in the corps' gyms, it runs all year round.

On average, about 20-25 women attend the sessions in New Waterford, while about 10-20 come to the sessions in Glace Bay. These programs attract women of all fitness levels and ages, with some of the women being in their 70s and 80s. The women walk about 2-3 miles (3-5 km) at each session and, at Glace Bay Corps, they socialize and eat healthy food together afterwards.

“There is a real sense of community with these women,” says Lieutenant Joyce Downer, corps officer at New Waterford Corps – Circuit with Glace Bay Corps. “It is a joy to see people attending to their physical needs and, at the same time, building relationships with one another.”

“On many days,” she adds, “it can be difficult to hear the DVD over the roar of conversation happening between the ladies while they are walking.”

Some of the women who attend “Walk Away the Pounds” have also started coming to corps events, and one woman who came to The Salvation Army through the workout program is now a member of New Waterford Corps.