Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your physical and mental wellbeing.  This May, challenge yourself to get outdoors and enjoy the benefits of walking. You could add a short walk to your lunch break, take an evening stroll after dinner or make time at the weekend to explore somewhere new. And remember, every step counts! With the help of our friends at Active Dorset, we have tips, tools, routes and more to share - so get ready to put your best foot forward!

Get motivated to walk more!

We've produced some free downloadable resources below, full of walking tips, facts and benefits to encourage you to get walking!

Walking facts and benefits

• Walking can boost your mood - Even a short walk can help reduce stress and improve how you feel. Spending time outdoors and moving your body can support better mental wellbeing and help you feel more energised.
• It’s a great form of exercise - A daily brisk 10-minute walk can improve your fitness and reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and cancer.
• Walking can ease physical discomfort - Moving your body helps ease muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in your hips, legs and lower back. It can also reduce your risk of osteoporosis.
• You may sleep better - An evening walk can help you sleep by aiding relaxation, reducing stress and regulating your circadian rhythm, ultimately leading to a better night’s rest.
• Walking supports weight loss - Walking regularly at a moderate pace can help with weight loss by burning calories. 

Most of us spend far too much time sitting. Sitting for more than four hours a day can increase our risk of long-term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer, and sitting for at least eight hours a day could increase the risk of premature death by up to 60%.

Walking is a free and easy way to build more activity into our lives. By walking as little as 30 minutes a day, five days a week, you can improve your heart and lung health, prevent arthritis-related joint pain and maintain a healthy weight.

Worried about walking?

If you are pregnant or have a long-term health condition you might be worried about exercising. The good news is, walking is one of the easiest and gentlest ways to move more so don't be discouraged. Here are Active Dorset's tips for staying safe and enjoying a good walk.

Support from LiveWell Dorset

If you would like support to become more active and improve your wellbeing, LiveWell Dorset can help.

We offer free advice and support to help Dorset adults make healthy changes, including getting active, managing stress, improving sleep and building healthier habits.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking for extra motivation, our team can support you on your wellbeing journey this May. Register with us to find out more!