Forget yoga and pilates, the latest exercise craze sweeping Hollywood is guided walks. Stars like Reese Witherspoon and Julia Roberts are booting up and walking their way to healthier lives. Now the UK has woken up to the trend and 'Healthy walks' are fast becoming very popular. The best news is you don't need a celebrity salary to join in. Guided walks are provided by your local NHS. All you have to do is turn up and wear a comfortable pairs of shoes.
'Healthy Walks' cater for people of all ages and ability. They are particularly good for people who don't like to walk or exercise on their own. Walking in a group is a safe way to burn calories and to improve fitness, especially as these are brisk walks aimed at raising your heart-rate. Walking is easier on the joints and has long-term benefits related to weight loss and living longer. It is also a great way to help motivate you to do your recommended 10,000 steps a day. 'Healthy Walks' are usually divided into beginners' walks and routes for more experienced walkers. The beginners' walk is designed for people who have little or no exercise. Once you have mastered that you can progress your fitness by taking on more challenging terrain. Walking is like driving a car. You start off slowly in first gear and then you move up through the gears as you get quicker and warmer. Like a learner driver, you may struggle a bit changing gears at the start but the more you walk, the faster you become at revving up. The longer the distance you go too. Walks take place within cities and towns as well as in the countryside. All walks are led by specially trained volunteers.
Walking is not only cheap but it is astonishingly relaxing. It offers an escape from the stress and strain of modern life and recent studies have shown that walking improves self-esteem, improves mood and relieves anxiety and symptoms of depression. You can join a guided walk on your own or with a friend. Children and grandchildren are welcome. 'Healthy Walks' offer many opportunities to make social contact with new people. Many of the walks are followed by coffee or lunch.
For more information on 'Healthy Walks' in your area, see www.whi.org.uk/walkfinder/home