5 Top Tips to get you out walking

Is stepping out on your to-do list, but not sure where to start? What kit do you need, how far should you go, and do you need to know how to read a map? All you walking for beginners questions answered.

What views we see when walking in the Ribble Valley and Lancashire

Walking and being out doors can be done by anyone - we often think of the mountains, trails and ranges, but what is out and about on your own doorstep? For the last coupe of years I've been finding out myself what is on our doorstep - in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire and beyond. I have joined many different groups and enjoyed both short and longer routes, as well as camping/walking holidays.

I know a lot of people walk - they have time on their side and can stride out in any weather, up mountain and down dale. But some are not that fortunate.

I'm making it my mission to encourage others to get out, no matter what barriers they have in front of them.

I have a gut feeling that there's 'always something we can do', and walking is one of the best forms of movement - both physically and mentally. But you don't need me to tell you that: walking groups have expanded enormously over the last few years, and especially during COVID one of the things we could do was walk.

To start your walking adventure why not start small - a mile or so, a park, an old tram track - these are all excellent starting points. Keep going - you'll soon impove!

Below are 5 Top Tips to get you out walking and getting the most from the outdoors

Tip #1 - Just go out

That's right - just go out. Step outside your front door and put one foot in front of the other. You will know of a local landmark that you might aim for - a postbox, a pub, a school, your friends house.

Tip #2 - Measure Success

How to measure your success: can you manage the same distance, but increase your speed? Or, can you aim for one extra lamp post every time you are out? Success will be different for everyone, and it needs to mean something to you. You don't have to keep a formal track of your successes - but you will feel the benefit everyday when you step out.

Tip #3 - It's OK being an newbie!

I'm increasing my walking as I am off trekking in October 2023, but before that I wasn't really a hiker. Being new at something can be daunting, and can feel scary, but you won't be on your own if you are new to walking - we all start of newbies at something.

"Lovely walk and company thanks." – Gill, Walker

Tip #4 - Maps, locations and compasses

Ah, these remind me of my 'O' Level Geography... map reading in Teesdale, in February. Oh the Joy! The best recollection I have of map reading then was 'in the house and up he stairs' for locating the grid reference. Today, we have a lot of tech that will support our walking and camping, but if we are local we can use a map to show us untold tales of a bygone era, as they show many interesting details - burial mounds, old settlements and ancient stones. An adventure on our doorstep.

Tip #5 - Are you ready to get started?

If we have whetted your appetite to come and join us for either Wonky Walkers, or COW (Come Out and Walk) Owtings, just get in touch. Click here for a full description of both walking groups.

Walking has many benefits, and they are at your fingertips

Join us for a walk and check out our diary of events for both Wonky Walkers and COW Owtings in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire and beyond.