How to Start a Walking Group in Your Neighbourhood

Over 100 new walking groups have been established in London's boroughs in the past year, with many more in the pipeline, according to data from the Ramblers, a UK charity that promotes walking and hiking.

The rise of community fitness events and group exercise in London is no surprise, given the city's strong mental health awareness culture and the popularity of initiatives like Parkrun UK, which has seen thousands of Londoners take to their local parks for weekly 5km runs. With the Royal Parks running network and cycling superhighways expanding, it's easier than ever for Londoners to get active and explore their city. Starting a walking group in your neighbourhood is a great way to tap into this trend, meet new people and improve your physical and mental health.

In London, neighbourhoods like Hackney and Camden are already home to numerous walking groups, with popular meeting spots including Regent's Park and the South Bank of the Thames. The NHS's GP referral scheme, which encourages doctors to prescribe exercise and physical activity to patients, has also led to an increase in demand for community-based fitness initiatives. Organisations like the London Borough of Tower Hamlets' health and wellbeing team and the charity Age UK's London branch offer support and resources for people looking to start their own walking groups.

Getting Started

Research suggests that walking in groups can have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and improving mental wellbeing. According to a study by the University of East London, 75% of people who joined a walking group reported an improvement in their mental health, while 60% reported an increase in physical activity. With an average of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per session, walking groups can be an affordable and accessible way to get fit, with no expensive gym membership or equipment required - just a pair of comfortable shoes and a willingness to get moving.

So, what happens next? If you're interested in starting a walking group in your neighbourhood, begin by reaching out to your local council or a nearby community centre to gauge interest and find a meeting point. You can also contact organisations like the Ramblers or Age UK for guidance and support. With a little planning and enthusiasm, you could be leading your own walking group in no time, exploring the streets of London and improving your health and wellbeing along the way. The first step is to take that first step - so why not get walking and see where it takes you?