Get a spring back in your step

Did you know that a brisk 10-minute walk can make your heart healthier, reduce anxiety, aid weight loss and build your stamina?

Just a few of the many health benefits that regular walking and exercise outdoors can bring.

As we step into spring, the days will start to get longer and the weather will be brighter. It’s the perfect time to dust off your walking boots or grab your trainers and get outside in the fresh air.

Benefits of walking

A walk doesn’t need to be strenuous or a 10km hike up a mountain for you to experience the many health benefits walking offers. Whether you are an active gym-goer, a seasoned hiker or just someone looking to get away from their desk for 10 minutes, walking is for everyone.

• Increases energy levels;
• Improves cardiovascular fitness and stamina;
• Strengthens bones and muscles;
• Strengthens your immune system;
• Lowers blood pressure;
• Reduces the risk of heart disease and strokes;
• Helps maintain a healthy weight and assists weight loss; 
• Reduces stress and tension and improves your mood;
• Improves sleep.

Stepping it up, from walking to hiking

The English countryside has many picturesque walks and hikes to suit all levels of ability and you don’t usually have to travel far to find breathtaking views. With staycationing also becoming more and more popular why not plan a walk as part of your next trip?

Here are a few of our favourite walks and hikes:

Derbyshire Dales: from stepping-stones in Dovedale to the heights of Kinder Scout, the Derbyshire Dales has something for everyone, whether you are a seasoned hiker looking for your next challenge or wanting to amble through the beautiful rolling hills of the Peak District there is a walk for every ability.

Regents Park and Primrose Hill: walks don’t have to be limited to the countryside, they can be through cities and towns too, appreciating the architecture, enjoying the flora and fauna in local parks, or taking in the London skyline from the top of Primrose Hill.

Yorkshire Dales: Mountains, lakes and waterfalls, the Yorkshire Dales has some of the most stunning scenery and landscapes in the UK. For those starting out and new to hiking Malham is a great place to start from.

Lake District: famous for its breathtakingly beautiful lakes, there are also a lot of hidden gems in the Lake District, such as Aira Force waterfall, Glenridding, The Old Man of Coniston mountain, and the caves at Cathedral Quarry.

Pembrokeshire Coast: Wales is the only country in the world that has an official walking path covering the entirety of its borders and our favourite stretch is along the Pembrokeshire coast. The coastal path takes in Castle ruins, hidden caves and rock stacks jutting out from the coast with seals relaxing on them.