Leading leisure destination, Chill Factor^e, is backing national Stroke Awareness Month following figures this week from The Stroke Association which report a worrying increase in the number of strokes by 44% in 20 years.

Chill Factor^e has launched a new offering to encourage the North West public to consider the health benefits of snow sports to tackle burgeoning obesity levels, revealed to be particularly prevalent in the area. Figures this week showed the North West had the highest number of obesity-related hospital admissions in 2016, with 78,000.

Skiing and snowboarding is renowned for burning an impressive 408 calories per hour and reducing stress levels, another key factor contributing to the nation’s rise in strokes, and Chill Factor^e has also found that 69% of skiers and snowboarding find the sport a great way to chill out and destress*.

Morwenna Angove, CEO of Chill Factor^e, comments: “We were shocked to hear the nation’s rate of strokes is expected to increase so significantly and that obesity is particularly prevalent in our North West heartland.  We want to support awareness of stroke risk and the need for quick action. Importantly, we want to highlight how people can improve their health by exercise, de-stressing and keeping fit, which are key factors in reducing stroke risk.

“Many of us get ‘gym fatigue’ and find it hard to keep off the pounds but our research shows that 69% of those who ski and snowboard in the UK love the sport because it helps them to chill out and de-stress, as well as being a great way to keep fit!”

On 17^th, 24^th and 31^st May, Chill Factor^e has launched a healthy breakfast club to raise awareness of Stroke Awareness Month and give skiers and snowboarders an additional incentive to take advantage of ‘chill out’ time on the slope before work. Guests can enjoy 2 hours on the slope from 7.30 – 9.30am for just £15 with a free healthy smoothie from the Mont Blanc restaurant at Chill Factor^e to set them up for the day.

Chill Factor^e gives top three reasons why snow sports can help to tackle stroke risk:

1. Lose weight

One hour of downhill skiing at a moderate effort will burn approximately 408 calories – more than many of the nation’s favourite activities, including an hour of aerobics (374 calories), basketball (340 calories), badminton (348 calories) and tennis doubles (340 calories).** The sub-zero temperatures also contribute to burning calories and your own body temperature increases in the cold environment.

1. Chill out 
   It’s no secret that exercise makes you feel great, boosts your mood and relieves stress. Combining the adrenaline of racing down the slopes with the fresh clean air and mountain views, makes snow sports a great mood booster!

1. Get fit

Regardless of your ability level, skiing and snowboarding improves your cardiovascular fitness, elevating the heart rate, working the lungs and major muscle groups and giving you a great workout.

To find out more, visit www.chillfactore.com.