IVV: Passport to Pleasant Walking

Relaxing, recreational activity can be as rewarding as competitive sports. That's what some farsighted Europeans believed back in 1968 when they created the IVV. Their program was simple: hold events where any person can participate and, as finishers, earn awards. Of course, all who finish are winners from a health standpoint. Today, over 4000 clubs throughout Western Europe, Asia, the USA, and Canada sponsor IVV walking, swimming, bicycling, and cross country skiing events. You set your own pace. No special equipment or training is needed--just a reasonably healthy body and the desire to explore both town and country for the fun of it. Event sponsors mark the route and offer free drinks along the way. At the finish they offer other refreshments at reasonable prices and often provide entertainment, too. Getting some exercise should be fun, not drudgery. Get out and try an IVV event near you real soon. Brighten up your day--you'll be glad you did!