Bromsgrove residents invited to get fit and raise money for the Stroke Association

Resolution Run, which is a series of 5k, 10k and 15k events, takes place at Hagley Hall on the Sunday April 28.

Studies by Professor Tom Robinson, who specialises in stroke medicine at the University of Leicester and president of the British Association of Stroke Physicians, said moderate to intense physical activity can significantly reduce stroke risks.

Professor Robinson said: “You don’t have to be an athlete to reduce your stroke risk, we can all do it as part of our daily routine.

"Simply taking part in at least 30 minutes of activity, which helps you break a sweat about three to four times a week will help.

"Remember, the more you do, the more you can reduce your risk.”

He added that being committed and having appropriate training plans are vital to successful goal achievement.

“The preparation for and taking part in a Resolution Run could reduce your stroke risk. However, it is equally important to remember that you need to maintain this level of exercise to keep your stroke risk low." he said.

"If you start small, training in short bursts and build up you are more likely to succeed and keep going in the long term too.”

Juliet Bouverie, chief executive of the Stroke Association, said: “Every five minutes across the UK, someone’s life is turned upside down by stroke but we can all take part in exercise that helps to reduce our risk.

"A Resolution Run is an ideal event for families and friends who want to do something fun together while getting more active in 2019.

"By signing up to a Resolution Run in Stoke each runner will not only reduce their stroke risk, they will also help ensure that we can continue to support stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives.”

The entry fee is £16 and all runners will receive a running t-shirt and medal.

To enter or for more information, visit resolutionrun.org.uk, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.