Get started

Starting walking really is as simple as putting on a pair of shoes and stepping out of your front door! But, to help you on your way, the Ramblers Association has put together a fantastic Get Walking pack which will make those first steps even easier. Apply for a pack online... You'll be surprised how quickly your abilities increase and soon walking will be part of your everyday life.

If you don't feel ready to set off on a long walk or trek, one way to get you on the right track is to find ways to walk more and for longer throughout your normal routine. For example, you could: get off the bus a stop earlier, walk to the shop to get your newspaper, get out for a short walk around the block during your lunchbreak, park in the furthest bay away from the supermarket!

A great way to meet new people whilst keeping fit is to join an organised Health Walking group, such as those delivered by Mobilise! There are plenty taking place most days all around the county, catering for all levels of ability and fitness... Use Natural England's Walk Finder for details of a group near you: www.wfh.naturalengland.org.uk/walkfinder.

If you're feeling inspired to get walking and fancy exploring more of our beautiful county, why not pick and choose from the great many already established walk routes on offer. There are a great many books available to buy and you can also find a few of the best ones at www.walking-routes.co.uk.

Walking is a safe and effective form of exercise for a lot of people and most can get started without checking with a doctor. However, anyone with heart disease or another health conditions, should consult their doctor before starting any exercise programme... It may be that you need to start your walking routine more slowly and build up gradually.