A "how-to" guide to start walking, and stay walking

Nothing beats walking to lift your spirits, get active, or for spending quality time with friends and family. The great thing about walking is that you can try it out straight away: to help you get started, here are some quick-start guides that you can read now, or print out for motivation later.

The simplest way to see how walking can make you feel better is to walk out your front door and get going. You can set the pace and length to suit yourself: Remember to start out gently - build up the pace and length gradually as your body gets used to exercise.

When you've proven to yourself that you can do it - and that it makes you feel good - then the trick is to make time for a walk in your daily life.  Our quick guide called Walking Tips is packed full of ideas to help with this, and to make sure you have an enjoyable, comfortable and safe walk.  

As you start to feel more confident, or if you would like to walk with others, then read our quick guide to Getting Walking. It contains information on how to find walking routes, walking groups and walking events in your area.  If you want to dive in, you can also go to our Support Near You page to start looking for ideas.

 

TIPS & ADVICE Screenshot GETTING WALKING Screenshot 

Like all new activities, the key to getting the most from walking is to make it a habit. But we know you may find it hard to stick with this new habit, particularly if you haven't been active before. We can help with that! Read our quick guide to Dealing with Excuses, and see how to beat the blues and keep going.

Once you've been walking confidently for a while, the key is to extend your walks - in length and challenge - so you keep up the benefits.

Why not Find a Walking Group near you to get help and support on how you can turn a first-step to fitness into a sporting activity.

 

Dealing with Excuses Screenshot

in association of Sports Council Hi Mountaineering Ireland Partner Organisations
Get Ireland Walking recognises that walking is an activity with a potential risk of personal injury. Participants should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement.