Walk your way to health during National Walking Month

Published: Tuesday, 3rd May 2016

Oxford residents can take part in May’s National Walking Month with free health walks.

Oxford Health Walks, organised by Oxford City Council, offer free walks every week ranging from one mile to three miles.

The majority of the walks are 45 to 60 minutes long. At least one walk every week is less than 30 minutes long.

The walks, which are led by trained volunteers, aim to help Oxford residents – including those with health conditions – get active, meet new people and explore their local area.

Vicki Galvin, Oxford Health Walks coordinator, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting National Walking Month this May.

“Our volunteer walk leaders help all sorts of people to enjoy the many health benefits that regular walking brings, providing support every step of the way.” 

“Our walkers have a great deal of fun, making new friends and getting to know their local area. Many of us know we should be more active, so why not join us this May and let us welcome you along to our next walk.”

It is recommended that people do at least 150 minutes of physical activity every week, but only 61 per cent of adults in England currently meet the recommendation.

Oxford Health Walks currently take place on Tuesdays in Summertown and the city centre, Wednesdays from Hinksey Park and Fridays from Bury Knowle Park. Every month there are also walks in Blackbird Leys and St Clement’s.

To find a short walk near you go to the Walking For Health website.

Oxford Health Walks is part of the Walking for Health network, which sees 400 schemes deliver about 1,800 free walks, supported by 8,300 volunteers to 20,200 walkers every week. The network is supported by Ramblers and Macmillan Cancer Support.

For more information about Oxford Health Walks, please contact sportsdevelopment@oxford.gov.uk  or 01865 252728.