Walk for health

A new project called Step into Nature, in partnership with the NHS Public Health Development Unit, is supporting residents to set up walking groups across the city.

Funded by Natural England, the project aims to encourage people to improve their health and fitness by taking part in regular led walks in our local parks and green spaces.

See the Plymouth walk programme below to find a Plymouth walking group near you.

Why walk?

Walking can:

• Make you feel good
• Give you more energy
• Reduce stress and help you sleep better
• Keep your heart strong and reduce blood pressure
• Help to manage your weight

Walking in a natural space like your local park or nature reserve is even better. Evidence shows that exercising in nature can lower your blood pressure even more than exercising indoors.

Join a walking group

• It's a chance to make new friends
• You can explore your local neighbourhood or other green space in Plymouth
• It's free and you don't need special equipment
• You have the support of a volunteer leader to help you stay motivated
• You can start slowly and build up gently

How to get involved

Anyone can join a walking group at any time and we encourage you to just come along and have a go - you might get hooked!

Plymouth walk programme

Details of our current groups and contact details.

Meet at YMCA Kitto Centre, Honicknowle at 12 noon for a walk in Ham woods and the surrounding areas. Everyone is welcome and YMCA staff are trained to support cardiac rehabilitation patients.

Grade/level: Walks are approx 45 minutes. Suitable for beginners.

Contact Rob Barry or Janice Carter: 01752 201918 or rob.b@plymouthymca.co.uk

Every first Thursday and third Thursday of the month, from Coy Pool Park and Ride. Meet at 13.30, walk starts at 14.00. Walks in Plymbridge Woods.

Grade/level: 90 minutes

Contact: Steph - 01752 341377 or stephanie.rodgers@nationaltrust.org.uk

Meet at the National Marine Aquarium, 11.15am for 60min Hoe walk with some slopes and steps and 1.15pm for a 30min flat Barbican walk.

Grade/level: 11.15am walk is for 60 minutes with some steep slopes and steps.

Grade/level: 1.15pm walk is for 30 minutes is flat. Suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.

Contact: Sharon on 01752 201766 or email sharon@plymouthguild.org.uk

On the 3rd Saturday of every month. Meet at the Park Pavilion 10am.

Grade/level: Walks are approx 45mins.

To book a place on the walk or to find out about other history walks, please email walkswithhistory@gmail.com.