Walking for Health

What is Walking for Health?

Walking for Health is England’s largest network of health walks with more than 360 active walking schemes. It aims to help people across the country lead a more active lifestyle – especially those who do little exercise – by encouraging them to get out and walk more regularly.

www.walkingforhealth.org.uk

Who is it for?

It’s for you – no matter what your age. If you don’t walk much at the moment or wish to improve your fitness, the scheme could be just what you need.

What are its aims?

To give you more energy.
To help you sleep better.
To increase confidence.
To keep your heart strong.
To reduce your blood pressure.
To help you manage your weight.

Anyone can do it!

Walk times

Grade 1
Wednesday 11:00am

Grade 2
Thursday 10.30am

Grade 3
Wednesday 10.30am

Meet in the Health & Wellbeing Center.

Walk grading & duration

Grade 1 – Gentle pace, easy terrain, few or no gradients.
10 to 30 mins.

Grade 2 – Paved or good paths, some gentle gradients, no stiles.
Up to 60 mins.

Grade 3 – May include some moderate slopes, steps, uneven surfaces, generally no stiles.
60 to 90 mins.

Beyond Walking for Health…
Next Steps

The ‘Next Steps’ walks follow on from Walking for Health – for those who are ready for longer and more challenging walk.

Friday 10.30am – Lower level walk.
Likely to feature some off-road segments, few stiles, mainly moderate gradients and a gentle pace.
Duration from 1.5 to 2 hours.

Friday also 10.30am – Medium level walk.
Likely to feature off-road segments, some stiles, mainly moderate gradients and a moderate pace.
Duration up to 2 hours.

Tuesday 10.30am – Highest level walk.
Likely to feature off-road segments, hills, steep gradients, stiles and a faster pace. Duration approximately 2 hours.

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to the walk start time.

Walks are free. Just turn up – there is no need to book.
If you have any queries, you can contact us on 01694 722077.

Advantages of walking

It’s free and easy.
No special equipment is needed.
You can start slowly.
It improves your confidence and energy levels.
It has great health benefits.

The walks

The walks are in Church Stretton and the surrounding areas.
They take place in small groups led by trained walk leaders, with a leader at the front and back.
You’ll never get left behind or feel you’re too slow.
The walks vary in difficulty, from gentle walks – perfect if you are recovering from illness – to more demanding walks.
They offer the opportunity to meet people and make new friends.
There are different walks for different abilities – from the Walking for Health walks to the Next Steps walks.

Anything else I should know?

You will be asked to complete a walker’s registration form before your first walk with us, so please arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time. If you’re unsure of your fitness to take part, speak to your GP or Practice Nurse.

Sorry, no dogs.