Are you looking for a way to get fitter, feel better, and enjoy the fresh air? Why not make a New Year’s resolution to join a gentle Health Walk? These free group walks are fun, social, and a great way to explore your neighbourhood while improving your health.
Walking is one of the simplest ways to stay active. It helps you maintain a healthy weight, strengthens your bones and muscles, improves stamina, and boosts your mood. Hertfordshire Health Walks offers a variety of walks, so there’s something for everyone, whether you’re new to walking or looking for a faster-paced challenge.
The Inspiration Behind Health Walks
Health Walks began in the mid-1990s, thanks to Dr William Bird, a GP near Reading. He saw the benefits of walking for his patients and started organising local group walks. Inspired by this, Hertfordshire County Council launched its first Health Walk in Harpenden in 2002. It quickly became a hit, leading to a county-wide programme supported by dedicated volunteers.
Now, the programme boasts more than 100 free walking opportunities across Hertfordshire. The walks cater to all fitness levels, from short and gentle First Steps walks for beginners to longer, brisker routes.
Walking in Stevenage
In Stevenage, there are four weekly Health Walks, including beginner-friendly routes around Fairlands Valley Park and Town Centre Gardens. For those ready for a challenge, there are faster-paced options in nearby towns and villages. Friendly volunteers lead every walk, ensuring no one gets left behind.
Marion, a volunteer in Hatfield, shared her experience: “Whenever people go on a Health Walk, they tell me they’re glad they came along. It’s mood-lifting, relaxed, and free—how many things are free these days?”
Participants also sing the programme’s praises. One walker said: “Fantastic people, fantastic initiative. They’ve helped me through some of my worst days, and I hope I’ve managed to help others too. So grateful!”
Life-Changing Benefits
Many walkers are retired or semi-retired and find walking helps them manage health conditions. Over half of the programme’s new participants were not physically active before joining.
Ray, an 82-year-old walker, credits Health Walks with transforming his life. After being diagnosed as pre-diabetic during the pandemic, he joined the walks to improve his fitness. “I feel much fitter now and am no longer pre-diabetic. I describe Health Walks as marvellous, reliable, and essential.”
Nervous About Joining?
It’s natural to feel nervous when trying something new, but Health Walks are designed to be welcoming and safe. Volunteers in bright yellow jackets will greet you warmly and provide support, including pairing you with an experienced walker if needed. First Steps walks include plenty of rest stops, and all routes are pre-planned and risk-assessed.
More Than Just Walking
Health Walks aren’t just about exercise—they’re about community. The programme has partnered with charities like Future Living and Helping Herts to offer taster walks for their members.
Looking ahead, there are plans to expand the walks in Stevenage, including new groups in The Oval. If you’re passionate about walking and want to make a difference, consider becoming a volunteer. Training sessions are available, with the next one scheduled for 11th April.
How to Join
There’s no need to book—just turn up on the day! New walkers should arrive 15 minutes early to register or complete the New Walker Form online.
For more information, visit the Stevenage Health Walks timetable, email healthwalks.cms@hertfordshire.gov.uk, or call 01992 555 888.
Take that first step today—your future self will thank you!
