Questions and answers
What are 'Health Walks'?
Health Walks are short, brisk walks undertaken regularly with the purpose of benefiting health and wellbeing’.
What makes them different from a 'normal' walk?
Our Health Walks are all planned in advance. We organise all the details including meeting places and routes so that all you need to do is just turn up. We also make sure that each walk has been checked and is led by at least one fully trained, insured, volunteer walk leader. This means that you can concentrate on walking and talking and not worry about getting lost!
We grade our walks on a 1 – 4 scale in terms of the estimated time it will take and whether or not there are hills or stiles. We do this so that you know what to expect before you turn up and if you want, you can work your way through the different levels. We are also beginning to introduce ’First Steps’ walks which are our easiest walks and suitable for people looking for gentle exercise.
What is the recommended amount of physical activity each week?
The government suggests that to stay fit and healthy each of us should be aiming for 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity fives times a week.
What counts as 'moderate intensity' physical activity?
Brisk walking, cycling, swimming and even regular gardening could count. An indication of moderate intensity exercise is feeling warmer and breathing slightly harder (you should still be able to hold a conversation).
Is there any evidence to suggest that walking is good for you?
Yes – lots! The Walking the Way to Health Initiative has conducted several studies in order to evaluate the benefits of walking. They also highlight and promote the findings of various other bodies and research groups. For further reading try visiting their website at www.whi.org.uk
Do I need to bring anything with me or wear anything special to walk?
We recommend that you wear whatever is comfortable – you don't need walking boots or expensive gear. All you need to bring is your ready to walk form (for your first walk only), money for a cup of tea after the walk and (we recommend) a bottle of water.
Can I bring my dog with me?
We understand that dogs need health walks as much as humans do so we're happy to have them along. We do request that you check with the walk leader and other walkers first. Please keep your dog on a short lead so he or she doesn't get under peoples feet and get tangled up in a group of people!
Will I be left behind if I walk too slowly?
We advise you to walk at a pace that suits you and understand that everyone will be walking at a slightly different pace. We aim to have at least two volunteers on every walk - one leading the walk, the other walking at the back. The back marker will always stay with the last walker, regardless of whether the group has stretched out or not. So you will never be left behind. If you found a walk very challenging we would recommend that you try a lower level walk to gain confidence and build up your fitness.
What if I can't make it round/want to leave early?
If you want to leave a walk early please let the leaders know at the beginning of the walk and again when you depart. If you are unsure whether or not you can make it round the route we suggest trying a lower level of walk first and building up your confidence and fitness gradually.
Can I just turn up?
Yes!
Are the walks suitable for those in wheelchairs and with buggies?
Some walks are and they are marked in the programme with a symbol. If you are interested in developing more wheelchair and buggy friendly walks please get in touch with us — we are always looking to make the walks as accessible as possible.
Are children welcome on the walks?
Yes - please note that all under 18s should be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Am I insured?
Yes – under the Walking the Way to Health Initiative and Hertfordshire County Council insurance.
What if I have an accident?
In the unlikely event of an accident be assured that our volunteer health walk leaders have basic first aid knowledge and a first aid kit.