Walking
Here with you step by step
Walking small steps for a big difference
Did you know it only takes 20 minutes on average to walk a mile?
Gentle, low impact and free. Walking is a great form of exercise that’s suitable for all ages. The benefits of this simple activity are often overlooked, but adding walking to your day is proven to strengthen your heart, keep weight in check and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Plan ahead for your short journeys
A guide on how to travel and stay active while social distancing.
What do you need?
A healthier you, starts with your feet!
The great thing about walking is that you don't really need anything to get started! However, a good pair of trainers will help make your walk pain free and encourage you to keep going for that little bit longer.
If you move on to longer walks or hikes into the countryside, you may want to invest in some walking boots and a waterproof jacket.
Walking groups near you
Go for a walk at lunch with a friend or participate in a led walk:
Walking and running routes
The best route on foot is not always the same as you would take by bike or car. Whether you're taking your dog for a walk or going to do essential shopping, there are several walking routes you can take to explore your local area.
Planning your routes
Why not plan your own route using Walk It or PlotARoute.
You can also try out some pre-planned ones:
- Find a walking/running route in your local area
- Explore your canal network – many canal towpaths have been recently upgraded and there are plenty to choose from to explore.
Walking Apps
There are lots of apps available to help you build up your walking and running.
- Active 10: This Public Health England app is a free walking tracker. It shows how much brisk walking you're doing and how you can do more.
- Couch to 5k: This NHS app is an app for absolute beginner level runners. It gradually builds people up to running 5k in just 9 weeks.
Get your family moving too - Living Streets
Walking the kids to school will help your whole family get more exercise. Transport for West Midlands and the Living Streets walking charity are working in partnership to help get kids walking to school.
If you would like to get your school involved please email Ed Wicks at Living Streets.
Roll & Stroll
Make this your Big Summer of Cycling and Walking.
There’s never been a better time to cycle and walk around the West Midlands than right now - with temporary measures being put in place including pop-up cycle lanes and pavement widening - so, get your roll and get your stroll on!
Interested in cycling?
Discover where you can cycle around the West Midlands.
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