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Walking for health scheme

Make your own way to better health!

Walking for Health programme (Pdf 44 kb)

The Spelthorne Walking for Health Scheme is part of the National `Walking the Way to Health Initiative.  The initiative aims to improve the health and fitness of more than a million people, especially those who are not physically active and want to become more active.
 Walking for Health Scheme

The Spelthorne scheme started in May 2003.  The walks are designed for total beginners and are between one and three miles. The walks take place at least once a week in various areas of the Borough. All waIks are led by volunteer walk leaders who have undergone the walking the way to health volunteer walk leaders training. There is always a front leader and back leader in order that all walkers can take part at their `own pace'

In order to benefit health, health professionals recommend that people should participate in moderate intensity exercise on at least five days of the week for at least 30 minutes. A moderate intensity walk should make you breathe a little faster and feel warmer.  The intensity should feel comfortable and you should be able to talk. The pace of the walk will depend on an individual's fitness level. What is appropriate for one individual may be too slow or fast for someone else.

Walking can
  • make you feel good and give you more energy
  • help reduce stress and help you sleep better
  • reduce blood pressure
  • help to manage your weight
Why walk?
  • it's a chance to meet new people and make friends
  • almost everyone can do it and it's free and easy
  • you can do it anywhere and any time
  • there's very little risk of injury
Physical activity should not pose any problem or hazard for most people. In order to identify those who should seek medical advice before walking, you will be required to complete a small health questionnaire before taking part of the scheme.

If you would like to join one of the walks please contact Lisa Stonehouse, Health Promotion Officer by telephoning 01784 446431 or e-mailing leisure@spelthorne.gov.ukLink