Are Walking Groups Worth Your Time and Effort? Let’s Explore!

Walking groups are common in the UK. Organised walking groups are part of the community health programs to encourage physical activity and community building. Walking groups date back to 2000 in England.

Local governments such as the NHS Trusts work with the government to organise walking groups in the country. Trained walk coaches lead short and free walks as part of public health intervention strategy.

So are walking groups worth it? Read on.

Walking Groups in the UK

Many walkers’ clubs in the UK run hundreds of walking groups in England, Wales, and Scotland. As a non-profit organisation, we atStyring Community Interest Company organise walking groups in Nottinghamshire to support adults and young people who have a mental illness.

The purpose of walking groups is to promote physical activity among the public. The adult in the UK is 28%, whereas 36% population is overweight. Similarly, one in four people suffers from a mental health problem in the country.

Walking groups tend to address these public health problems and are worth it for the following reasons:

Affordable Physical Activity

Walking groups are so popular in the UK that you can access them anywhere. You can easily find a walking group of your choice anywhere in the country. The best thing about walking groups is that it’s a low-risk and affordable physical activity that you can enjoy several days a week.

Improve Chronic Conditions

Walking group is an underrated physical exercise that has multiple benefits. It can improve chronic conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, dementia, arthritis, and depression. It’s a suitable exercise therapy for elderly groups.

Boost Social Health

One of the biggest benefits of walking groups is that it improves social health. Quality of life is determined by a person’s social life. Especially as you grow older, you need to keep yourself active and socialise to eliminate the risk of isolation and alienation.

Walking groups can help older adults to socialise and find their people. It also increases motivation among adults to connect with new people.

Improve Mental Health

Walking alone can boost your physical health, but walking with a group also influences your mental health. Walking in nature with a group of people improves self-esteem and emotional health. It also improves your mood states because the blood circulation in your body and brain directly elevates the feeling of happiness.

What Does The Research Say?

According to research, walking groups build strength, improve blood pressure, reduce body fat, and contribute to overall fitness. Studies also show a significant drop in the depression of adults, whereas the majority of older adults with chronic conditions report improvement in their conditions.

A Walking group is an enjoyable therapy that doesn’t require much. You can start your own walking group or join our walking groups for individuals struggling with mental and physical health problems. Styring Community Interest Company is committed to improving public mental health with exercise therapy, walking groups, and football therapy. Sign up today!