Walk this May

TAKE the first steps into a physically active lifestyle this May for National Walking Month.

National Walking Month encourages the public to embrace the health and wellbeing benefits that walking or wheeling can bring.

Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Worcestershire County Council, Herefordshire Council and Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire have come together to promote the benefits of walking in a collaborative campaign.

Walking or wheeling is a free, fun and flexible way to build exercise into your routine, and the two counties are blessed with natural beauty spots, walking groups, and walking sports groups to get you involved.

Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s Social Inclusion and Wellbeing Manager, Caroline Savage, is eager to engage the older communities in both counties in walking month.

“Walking is not only an excellent way to reintroduce your body to physical activity, but it also offers a host of social benefits. These social interactions, which are a natural part of our walking groups and sports, can have a positive impact on mental health and overall wellbeing. Whether you prefer a friendly competition in walking sports like football, netball, or basketball, or a leisurely stroll with one of our walking groups, there's something for everyone. Come along and have a go this walking month.”

According to the Sport England Active Lives Survey for 2021-2022, adults across both counties either walk regularly or fairly regularly, more than the national average of 43%.

The stats show 50% of Herefordshire adults either walk regularly or fairly regularly, and the same for 45% of Worcestershire adults.

Dr Lisa McNally, Director of Public Health for Worcestershire County Council and Matt Pearce, Director of Public Health for Herefordshire Council said:

 “Getting out and about for a walk in the fresh air, is good for our minds, our bodies and the environment.

“Taking regular walks can reduce stress and blood pressure, improve sleep, boost your mood and help you manage your weight. It’s also fun, particularly when you walk with friends and colleagues.

“We would love to see pictures of how people enjoy walking, whether that’s during the week walking the dog or taking children to school, or a special walk at the weekend for fun.

“We live in a beautiful area, which many people travel to for their holiday. It’s now a great time of year to enjoy the natural beauty nearby. So please use the hashtag #WalkthisMay to share your walk.”

Across social media and the websites of the participating organisations this May, you can learn more about walking routes near you, the benefits walking can have on mental health, the benefits of walking for travel and more.

You can get involved this May by using the hashtag #WalkthisMay to show us how you incorporate walking into your daily lives.