Take part in Walk Every Day in May with over 30 South Lanarkshire groups
May is set to become a month of movement as people in South Lanarkshire are encouraged to take part in a national campaign inspiring everyone to walk or wheel every single day for their physical and mental health.
The 'Walk Every Day in May' initiative is being rolled out to coincide with National Walking Month and will highlight the simple yet transformative power of daily activity to showcase how walking can change lives and reveal unexpected discoveries one step at a time.
Spearheaded by Paths for All, Scotland's national walking charity, its mission is to create a happier, healthier and greener Scotland where everyone can enjoy the benefits of walking and wheeling.
Over 700 Health Walks are already taking place in Scotland, most are every week, and delivered by members of the Scottish Health Walk Network, with 31 across South Lanarkshire. The campaign provides a crucial opportunity to spotlight the accessibility, health benefits and sense of community that comes with being more active, regardless of age or ability.
By encouraging people to build walking into their everyday routine, whether it's a brisk lunchtime stroll, a wander with friends or a wheeling commute, the campaign reinforces how vital physical activity is to both physical and mental wellbeing.
Chief executive of Paths for All, Kevin Lafferty, said: 'This campaign is a celebration of the simplest, most accessible form of physical activity, one that requires no special equipment or memberships.
'Walking every day, even for short bursts, brings massive benefits for mental health, brings people together, and boosts physical wellbeing. And best of all, it's completely free.
'The mental health benefits of walking are well documented. A short stroll can lift your mood, reduce anxiety, and is a way to decompress from daily stress. Social walking groups also provide a lifeline for many, offering connection and companionship, especially for those at risk of isolation.'
The campaign builds on findings from Paths for All's 2023 National Attitudes Survey and Living Streets' Pedestrian Pound report, both of which reveal a clear appetite for walking, but also highlight the barriers that hold people back.
While many understand the physical and mental benefits, some feel unsure how to get started, and others lack the confidence to join local walking groups.
To help overcome these hurdles, the campaign will spotlight real-life stories throughout May, featuring individuals whose lives have been transformed by making walking part of their daily routine. These personal accounts aim to inspire others to take that first step, no matter their age or ability.
Although 86 per cent of people in Scotland live within five miles of a town centre, and 44 per cent already walk to local shops several times a week, awareness of the hundreds of free, organised Health Walks happening nearby remains surprisingly low.
This campaign offers the perfect opportunity to shine a light on what's available and encourage more people to discover the benefits of walking right on their doorstep.
Walk Every Day in May features a downloadable calendar of walking adventures, tips to help stay motivated, share discoveries and connect with others online, all helping to build a nationwide community of everyday walkers.
For those who'd like some help to get walking, Paths for All supports Health Walk providers throughout Scotland. These groups deliver short, free walks led by trained volunteers who welcome participants of all abilities.
Health Walks are ideal for those who haven't been active recently or need to do a little more. By joining a group, participants can enjoy guided routes, make new friends, and feel supported on their walking journey, not just during National Walking Month, but all year round.
*Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
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