Getting Started
Walking is a great way of getting back on the path to fitness for people who currently take little or no physical exercise. It requires no equipment, no expense and you can do it anywhere! All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and you’re ready to go.
Walking is not all about planning long hikes. The easiest and quickest way to start feeling the benefits is to make walking part of your everyday routine. This could include:
- Walking instead of using the car for short journeys
- Getting off the bus a stop earlier
- Walking children to school
- Taking the stairs instead of the lift
- Parking further away from your destination and walking the rest of the way
Aim to walk for 30 minutes a day to meet government guidelines on healthy levels of activity. The Ramblers Association leaflet 'Get Walking, Keep Walking' also contains lots of information to get you started, including a 12 week walking plan.
If you are very inactive, seriously overweight or have medical problems that affect your mobility, you should get advice from your doctor before starting on a new programme of activity.
Equipment
Other than a comfortable, sturdy pair of shoes, the only other equipment you really need to take is protection from the weather! This may mean sun cream and a bottle of water in summer months and waterproofs or an umbrella when there is a risk of rain. Our section on Personal Safety has information on other items you might want to consider carrying for security.
If you’ve been walking for a while and are interested in doing longer or brisker walks, you may want to consider investing in a pair of specialist walking boots/shoes and clothing. More information on equipment for walking can be found on The Ramblers Association website.
