Have you ever considered that a four-legged friend could be your best fitness training partner? The People's Movement, Sheffield's physical activity revolution is calling on all dogs in the city to lead the drive to improve health and fitness by encouraging more people to take dogs for regular strolls.

Walking is one of the best ways to help improve fitness levels and reduce the risk of developing serious health problems. Experts say that everyone should aim to walk for 30 minutes each day, this can be done in 10 minute slots at different times of the day, ideal for walking the dog.

Walking is a relaxing and enjoyable way to keep healthy, and as it requires no equipment or expense, is the perfect way to exercise. Walking also promotes a sense of well being, reduces feelings of stress and depression, and gives people increased energy for everyday tasks.

In order to ensure everyone has the chance to enjoy walking the dog, not just dog owners, the People's Movement have teamed up with the Cinnamon Trust who coordinate a volunteer dog walking scheme.

The trust is a national charity who work to keep pets together with their owners longer. They are always looking for volunteer dog walkers to join their 7500 strong group of volunteers across the country, who donate their time to look after pets.

To promote the campaign, the People's Movement have enlisted the help of Hettie the Dog, who is giving up lounging by the fire, to do her bit to encourage the people of Sheffield to get fitter by walking their dogs. Hettie is the dog that is currently on display on the People's Movement Decaux across the city. The boards highlight the fact that walking for just 30 minutes a day is great fitness quick fix. A leaflet is also available in locations across the city, which details all the benefits of walking and what to aim for. Information from both the leaflet and billboards can also be accessed on the website www.thepeoplesmovement.co.uk.

Paul Billington, spokesperson for The People's Movement, said: "We are aiming to make Sheffield the most active city in the UK, and dog walking is an ideal way to get fit, and enjoy yourself at the same time."

Paul added: "You don't need to have a dog of your own to take for walks, why not keep a friend or neighbour company when they walk their dogs, or volunteer some of your time to the Cinnamon Trust and do a good deed at the same time. There are so many health benefits for walking and it's the simplest activity to fit into an already busy day!"