www.ramblers.org.uk

Walking is the most natural and simple form of movement, and an excellent all-round mode of exercise. Yet as a nation we are walking less and less. It’s hard to change your habits when you get older so that’s why it’s vital for parents to do everything they can to make walking a regular part of their children’s everyday life.
 

The majority of studies of young people indicate declining participation in physical activity. Only half of 11-16 year olds currently walk for ten minutes a day (Health Education Authority 1999). Children in Britain walk 50 miles a year less then they did a decade ago. Around 20% of children can be classed as overweight. TV, computers, cultural changes and fears for children’s safety out of doors play a large part. The Health Education Authority recommends that “all young people should participate in physical activity of at least moderate intensity for one hour per day. Example of moderate intensity activities for all young people may include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, most sports or dance” (Cavill, Biddle & Sallis 2001).

Walking offers a great way to help kids get the active habit. If parents express excitement about the prospect of a walk in the countryside, they are more likely to transmit this feeling to their children. It’s important to treat the walk as an exploration or adventure and to go to at the child’s pace, no matter how often they want to stop and look at things; take treats to eat and plenty to drink; and head for some landmark that will appeal to them such as a castle, a playground, an ice cream van or a boating pond. If children experience walking as part of a fun activity they are more likely to want to go again.
 

Britain’s towns and cities are full of lovely parks which are a pleasure to walk in and there’s always one not far away. If you drive your children to school, try walking part of the journey either there or back. You could get off the bus a stop earlier or park your car further away. If this makes timing difficult, you could try doing it just one day a week. Whatever fuels your passion for walking, the Ramblers will help you get the most out of the city on your doorstep and the countryside around you. And your membership will help our work on behalf of walkers across Britain, safeguarding and protecting the countryside, maintaining paths and increasing access for walkers. Benefits of membership include: Our Yearbook and Accommodation Guide packed with information about walking and places to stay around Britain. Walk magazine four times a year. Discretionary discounts in many outdoor shops. Membership of a local group with access to walks and social events.

You can support the work of The Ramblers by joining us or making a donation. Call us on: 020 7339 8536 quoting reference INFOMAT to receive a 20% discount on standard membership rates or visit our website www.ramblers.org.uk for more information.

www.ramblers.org.uk