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Health Walks guided walks by volunteers

(31 Posts)
seacliff Wed 19-Apr-17 14:56:42

I have just been for the most glorious walk this morning, at Walberswick in Suffolk. Stunning scenery, a part I'd never walked before. I thought I'd mention it in case anyone else wants to improve their fitness a bit and wants some company.

I want to get fitter, and have found the Health Walks run by onelife Suffolk.http://onelifesuffolk.co.uk/our-services/health-walks/

They do a series of walks all over the county, and I think they are nationwide. www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/

It's good to go on an escorted walk, as I often get lost on my own! We walked about 3.5 miles along the river and through countryside back to the cars.This was the toughest level 5 walk, but some are very easy. They will always slow down if someone is struggling a bit.

Before the first walk you have to complete a form stating any health conditions, but there is no charge and no booking ahead needed.Just turn up, the groups I've been with are very friendly, and well behaved dogs can come too.

When I get fitter and faster I may join the Ramblers, but this group is a good starting point.

GeminiJen Sat 22-Apr-17 11:06:57

Caro1954....Small world....I live in Gullane too...soon to be renamed CALA Land if the developers have their way sad Good luck with your recovery.

seacliff Fri 21-Apr-17 22:57:14

Meant to say, most libraries have the health walk brochure, if you ask.

Bellanonna Fri 21-Apr-17 22:10:13

Thanks seacliff. I have just downloaded the programme for my area. I was an avid walker but knee problems stopped my lovely countryside rambles and I had to drop my membership of two clubs. However I'm not too bad at the moment and some of our local walks look quite inviting without being too long. As soon as I'm over this current bug I will definitely give it a go.

Hm999 Fri 21-Apr-17 21:06:42

Some U3A branches have a walking group

Lyndie Fri 21-Apr-17 19:02:52

Walkers are welcome in Corsham and Bradford on Avon. Do look at their website. They organise walks over a particular weekend during the year. Historic walks to long walks and everything in between.

Mrsdof Fri 21-Apr-17 16:31:37

We have the Healthwalks here in Kent. We go on our local one on a Thursday morning and usually finish up at the pub for a quick drink wink. They usually last for around 1 1/2 - 2 hrs. I like to call them walk and talk as it's a good way of chatting with new people. We usually average around 20-30 people most weeks. I believe they are affiliated to the NHS in some way and they have regular walk leaders. Great fun

seacliff Fri 21-Apr-17 15:01:54

Hi JillandChris - they do Health walks in Cheltenham, you could always call their contact and ask - Chris Davis 01242 774753 [email protected]. I know in our area they have some very easy flat town walks.

Sundancer, I see people pootling up the river in little boats and envy them, it looks idyllic. If I can shift some weight, I'd like to try canoeing.

seacliff Fri 21-Apr-17 14:47:38

I have just returned from my second Health walk this week, around Dunwich. 3.8 miles in 80 minutes, and there were a couple of hills. Very enjoyable, I feel so embarrassed puffing up the hills, red in the face, when I'm walking with people at least 10 years older than me, but slim and fit and regular walkers. I am working on it.

Flowerofthe west - one Walberswick walk started right down end of Palmers Lane, just past the church. A good way down that little lane, you can park car on verge. Follow the track on down to the river. You can then choose to turn left and walk along river for maybe 2 miles. Very scenic. Eventually you have to turn off inland, and can then walk back to car across fields and through woods. Or there is a bridge across to Southwold side.

Another walk we did started at the Hoist Car park and went round Westwood Marshes, again fantastic area.see map on first link. Enjoy your break.

file:///C:/Users/Barbara/Downloads/NE260_NNR_Walberswick_WEB%20PDF.pdf

www.discoversuffolk.org.uk/assets/Walks/Up-to-6-miles/Angels-and-Pinnacles-Southwold.pdf

EastEndGranny Fri 21-Apr-17 14:28:41

I walk with 3 friends most Mondays. It's like a tonic and sets me up for the week.

Caro1954 Fri 21-Apr-17 13:27:39

Thankyou Geminijen, that's kind of you. I'm in Moray but my son lives in Gullane! I'll try U3A as there's quite an active group here and I like the look of a couple of their things. Six weeks before I can do anything much.sad

MiniMama Fri 21-Apr-17 13:10:34

I do Nordic walking- it is good as my back plays up and the poles help. It is great for me as my fitness level is ok but couldn't run or cycle to save my life! There's usually a 4 week introductory course, Nikki our instructor gives 1st taster lesson free. Look up your local group there are loads around and it is very sociable!

GeminiJen Fri 21-Apr-17 12:52:49

Caro1954 Whereabouts n Scotland do you live?
I live in East Lothian and there's quite a bit of choice here.
I'm away from home for a while so can't put my hand on a printout I have of a series of walks that might be of interest. PM me if you live nearby and I'll send you details
Otherwise, local U3A?....contact local authority to see what's on offer....?
Hope this helps..

JillAndChris Fri 21-Apr-17 12:31:35

The health walks are great. But I can only get around with a walker and even then need frequent sits. I would love to walk with others who have a similar speed. I live in Cheltenham. Any ideas?

Sundancer123 Fri 21-Apr-17 12:27:13

Used to sail up to Suffolk from Essex a lot before I lost my DH. It's a wonderful area, still untouched, I so miss those days.
⛵️

shysal Fri 21-Apr-17 12:04:39

Sorry, goldengirl, for the useless suggestion!blush.
How annoying IBS must be!

TriciaF Fri 21-Apr-17 11:28:04

www.amazon.com/Blessings-Good-Thick-Skirt-Travellers/dp/0006547486?tag=gransnetforum-21
I often used to wear a longish thick skirt for walking - so much easier for toilet etc.

goldengirl Fri 21-Apr-17 11:24:01

Thanks for the reminder about Shewees Shysal but as I have IBS........!!!!

Caro1954 Fri 21-Apr-17 11:17:26

I had an operation on my foot yesterday and am really hoping to be able to do some (easy at first) walking here in Scotland. Is the scheme you mention nationwide I wonder?

shysal Fri 21-Apr-17 11:09:27

goldengirl, have you tried a Shewee? You can then urinate standing like a man, no need to drop your trousers. They are ideal for the countryside when out walking. I used one of mine the other day to fill a sample bottle for taking to the Doctor!
I have never tried Nordic walking, but understand it is very good for you. Most of my walking is done alone and I think would feel a bit embarrassed doing it properly. I do use an ordinary walking pole or thumb stick off-road.

Soniah Fri 21-Apr-17 10:34:34

We have them here in Wales too, we walk for 90 minutes so if there are a lot of hills, stiles or rough walking we don't go as far as when the going is easier, we usually walk 4-5 miles and quite briskly so I get fitter doing this than walking on my own or with my husband when we tend to saunter and stop to look at the view more. The social side is good too and we always end with coffee and the (very informal) golf club

Flowerofthewest Fri 21-Apr-17 10:32:11

Off to Walberswick on Tuesday for 4 days. Staying in friends hut. Must take in some walking.

Flowerofthewest Fri 21-Apr-17 10:29:04

I'm off to Walberswick on Tuesday to stay in my friends hut. Any advice on walks welcome. I know area well as we stay here often.

goldengirl Thu 20-Apr-17 11:01:09

I'd like to do some walking when I'm more mobile [temporary setback] and have thought of nordic walking. However unless there is a loo at the start / finish [and one in the middle if it's a longer walk] I can't participate. It's a shame and must prevent lots of other people enjoying time out in the countryside too.

chocolatepudding Thu 20-Apr-17 09:50:04

Have a look at the Suffolk Walking Festival website - now in its 10th year and there are lots of walks to choose from for all abilities.

www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk/

Greyduster Thu 20-Apr-17 09:08:12

We had a lovely walk a few years ago from Dunwich to Walberswick, Seacliff. Out along the edge of the nature reserve for a bit of bird watching and then back along the beach. We were staying in Dunwich for a few days.