The short definition of a health walk is:
"a purposeful, brisk walk undertaken on a regular basis"
This can include any walk which is specifically designed and carried out for the purpose of improving a person's health.
For a healthy heart and good blood circulation, the walk should be purposeful and 'brisk' (in other words, more than just a stroll). This should be a structured or semi-structured activity, which is carried out regularly, as part of a person's exercise routine. Walking, even without the emphasis on health, is a healthy activity, as any energy expended has health benefits, regardless of its intensity.
Organised walks, whether brisk or not, can have healthy impact on people by providing an opportunity to socialise – good social networks enhance health – and a distraction from everyday stresses. Stress undermines health. It is the relevant intensity and regularity of the walk that can really have a healthy impact on the heart.
Beginners, why not set up a Walks for Health programme in your community?
The High Peak Walks for Health team has been nominated for a Nationwide Award for Voluntary Endeavour, in the adult group category, for their work in the community.
Now in its ninth year, the Nationwide Awards for Voluntary Endeavour recognises individuals and groups throughout the UK who have made an outstanding contribution to their local community. This can include work for charities, community groups or other organisations providing a valuable community service.
The two members of the High Peak Walks for Health team, Betty Payne and Harry Mayo, pictured here, have received the Derbyshire Older Person Physical Active Champion Awards, from Sport England and Derbyshire PCT, for their contribution to the highly popular programme.
More details about their achievement (44KB)
High Peak Walks for Health is a highly popular programme of guided walks around the High Peak area. The walks are graded according to accessibility, and range from easy through to challenging, and include wheel and walk routes for those in wheelchairs and buggies.
The volunteer guides are trained by the Countryside Agency.
Last year, there were an impressive 145 organised walks with a magnificent total of 2,545 individual attendances.
The walks took place in numerous locations, including Buxton, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Chinley, Edale, Fernilee, Glossop, Hayfield and New Mills.
Walking strengthens your heart, your bones and your muscles... and it helps to control your weight.
Walking is free and will enrich your life in many ways.
Walking improves your mood and helps combat depression.
Go for a walk in your local park or wood and discover how nature can reduce stress and calm your mind.
Walk with friends or join a walking group and discover just how much fun walking can be!
Gamesley Community Centre is hosting a free training course for volunteer walk leaders. The free one-day course is organised for Saturday 27 October 2007 from 9.30am – 4.30pm.
Paul Evans, High Peak Borough Council Walk Leader Coordinator, will attend on the day to train volunteer walk leaders either for their own scheme, or other local schemes.
Anyone wishing to book their place on the course, can contact Lisa Jowitt by email or phone 01457 869145.
If you would like to become more involved in our volunteer walk programmes, please contact Paul Evans, at High Peak Borough Council, on 0845 129 77 77 / 01298 28400 extension 2209.
Training is provided so that all local people, including professionals, have the confidence and knowledge to use and implement Walking for Health programmes and be able to recommend walking to their friends, clients or colleagues.