The many wonders of walking

Walking is one of life’s simplest but most versatile activities. Far more than getting you from A to B, it offers a wealth of possibilities for socialising, exploring, and relaxing. Next time you’re stumped for how to pass the time, or you’re hoping to get outside but aren’t quite sure what to do, have a think about the many and varied benefits of putting one foot in front of the other.

Connect with friends
Whether it’s an old friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with or an exercise group, walking really is the perfect social activity. Ask your friends and family to show you their favourite walking trail – you’ll be amazed how easily you pass the time, and how many steps you accumulate when the conversation is flowing. Or, try joining a Heart Foundation Walking group that has regular, scheduled get-togethers. No matter what your age or occupation, lots of people find that walking groups are a great way to get outside, and make new friends – you know you’ll already have at least one interest in common!

Some 'me' time
If group walks aren’t your thing, remember that it’s just as beneficial to walk on your own. Just think for a second – what’s the first thing people say when they’re stressed, or angry, or overwhelmed? “I need to go for a walk.” It clears your head, and gives you all the time and space you need to gather your thoughts and contemplate the world, away from life’s daily distractions. No matter what mood you’re in, heading out for a walk is the perfect solo activity. 

Zoning out 
If you’re simply looking to unwind, walking gives you time to dive into the latest podcast everyone’s been talking about, or to revisit some of your favourite albums. And instead of sitting at home on the couch with a book, try listening to the audiobook version while you’re out and about!

Feel inspired
Can you guess what Tchaikovsky, Steve Jobs and Charles Dickens all had in common? They insisted on a lengthy walk as part of their daily routine. Dickens scheduled a three-hour stroll each and every afternoon to gather his thoughts and invigorate his mind before a solid night’s work. In fact, throughout history, some of our greatest artists and thinkers saw walking as their single greatest source of inspiration and relaxation.  So now’s your chance to get out there, hit the pavement, and contemplate that great idea you’ve had for years. 

Explore on foot
Australia is one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse countries in the world. Whether it’s the playground at the end of your street or one of our extraordinary national parks, there’s always something new to discover right around the corner. It might take you fifteen minutes, four hours, or a whole week away, but heading out into the great unknown is the perfect way to rack up your steps, and see a part of the world you haven’t seen before.

Ditch the weather app
Sometimes without even knowing it, we let the weather dictate our lives and daily routines. Too hot, too cold, too sunny, too cloudy… all of these can be countered with the right clothing and a solid action plan! Get out there and make the most of whatever the weather might be – when was the last time you wandered through a forest during Autumn and appreciated the changing leaves? Or saw a bed of roses come into bloom in Spring? There’s nothing a raincoat or a spot of sunscreen can’t fix, and you’ll be seeing everything that the outside world has to offer.

Walking might seem like an everyday activity, but start doing it regularly (try for 30 minutes a day), will open your eyes to its many benefits.