I have been a keen walker all my life. As a child, I often walked two miles to school and two miles home. I grew up on the outskirts of town and we were free to play in the local fields. Since I retired, I have had more time to enjoy my hobby and learn more about the places I visit.
It has been estimated that in England half of all adults are not active enough to benefit their health. Walking for health and pleasure is something you can do at any age and needs little more than a good pair of shoes and a thick pair of socks. There has never been a better time to get away from it all. Going at your own pace will allow you to discover some of the U.K.’s best kept secrets. On foot, you can travel to some of the most secluded and spectacular parts of the country and experience things you might miss by car.
How do I find a walking group near me?
No matter where you live the chances are there will be a walking group nearby.
The ramblers association has a list of walking groups in the U.K.
Meetup is a good place to find companions for more casual walks
I am new to walking. How do I start?
Local councils often organise a network of health walks that are short and over easy terrain. They are supported by friendly trained volunteers who are on hand to provide encouragement.
Is Nordic walking good for seniors?
Nordic walking uses specially designed poles to work your upper body as well as your legs. This reduces pressure on your joints and makes you feel lighter on your feet. The poles help with balance and help prevent falls. It originated in Scandanavia where skiers used it as a way to keep fit in summer. If you are thinking of trying it it is advisable to book a couple of lessons to learn the proper technique and see if you like it before investing in any equipment.
What are the health benefits of walking?
Any form of moderate exercise benefits both your mental and physical health. But perhaps the most important benefit is the chance to make new friends who share your interests.
Mental health
- Improve mood
- reduce anxiety
- help you sleep better
- increase energy
Physical health
- maintain a healthy weight
- keep muscles and bones strong,
- reduce risk of cardiovascular disease
- reduce risk of some cancers and type 11 diabetes
Social benefits
- contact with people who share your interests
How much walking should I do?
The department of health recommends about two and a half hours of moderate intensity exercise a week. It is fine to spread this over several days and it equates to thirty minutes exercise on five days a week. If you are new to long distance walking it is better to start slowly and increase the distance you walk and the number of hills slowly.
What equipment do I need?
We all walk every day without any special equipment. However, for longer walks over more difficult terrain, you may want to take a drink and a healthy snack, a spare top and sunscreen and a sunhat or a waterproof jacket depending on conditions. You should also take a mobile phone and a paper map unless you know the route well. Everything should fit easily into a small backpack.
I find it difficult to get out of the house What can I do?
There are lots of YouTube videos that can help. During lockdown, I discovered Leslie Sansone’s walk at home program. I was also able to complete a virtual walk of the Ring of Kerry run by Conqueror Challenges by linking my Fitbit to their app.
It is difficult to stay motivated can you help me?
I think most people hit a wall at some point especially in winter when it is dark and cold. The trick is often to combine something you want to do with something you ought to do. How about a walk to a teashop or pub or even a bit of window shopping. Some people like listening to an audio book. If you want to find out who the murderer is you jst have to keep walking.
- How seniors can keep active in winter
- Walking for health and pleasure frequently asked questions
- The Conqueror virtual Walking challenges
