Walk this way
Welcome to Health Walks - whether you are new to walking, or an experienced rambler, you will be able to find advice, tips, information on walking here. There's also a list of walks that you can join and profiles from individual walk leaders, telling you all about the routes they take, the level of challenge and the kind of people that are taking the walks.
Enjoy better health
Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your health, get fit and keep in shape. It costs nothing and age and fitness levels are no barrier.
A 1996 US Department of Health study showed that taking part regularly in a physical activity such as walking, reduces mortality rates in young and older adults. But as well as helping you live longer, research has also shown that walking:
- Keeps your heart healthy
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces high cholesterol
- Help with weight control
- Reduces stress levels
- Helps prevent osteoporosis
- Reduces the risk of cancer of the colon
- Lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes
- Eases osteoarthritis
You can have fun!
Walking is fun too. Health walk leaders tell us that those joining their walks get a real boost from being in the outdoors and getting some fresh air into their lungs. The physical exercise also gives an endorphin surge and the release of the brain's feel-good chemical makes walkers feel happier. Leaders also tell us that the walks are a great way of getting to know new people and many groups go out for lunch together after the walk, or meet as friends outside the walk.
On your feet fact
Walking one mile (1.6km) can burn up at least 100kcal (420kJ) of energy
First Steps
An easy way to get started is by joining one of the East Kent health walks. With more than 50 walks to choose from, there is bound to be one that suits you. For more information on walks in east Kent call Martyn Jordan on 0800 8494000.
The walks are led by specially trained volunteers and are open. There’s no need to book, simply turn up on the day and join in. Walks take between 40 to 90 minutes to complete and start from easy-to-find locations, such as sports centres or libraries.
Bigger strides
There are lots of national organisations that will help you get walking too. Find out more by visiting:-