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Starting out
You may already be quite fit and taking part in different sports, or this may be the very first time you have been motivated to get fit. Whatever your starting point, you must walk.
Because of the muscles you will be using, no other form of exercise replaces walking! Don’t be fooled. You may go to the gym each week and have good stamina but your walking muscle strength may not be strong. On the other hand, maybe you have never taken part in any fitness programme but you walk to work each day. You could already have good walking fitness and strength without even knowing it.
How walking fit are you?
Before setting out on your training programme it is a good idea to find your starting point in terms of fitness and ability and use that as your control. By walking too fast too soon, you can cause injury and strains. By walking too slowly you will not increase your fitness and either way you can easily lose your motivation before you even get started. By setting the correct pace for your fitness level you are taking the first successful step towards achieving your goal, whether that is to take part in a MoonWalk marathon, SunWalk, 10k or to complete the Inca Trail. You will also be getting the best from your body and consequently achieving the results you are aiming for whilst having fun!
The next steps and your training plan ...
There is a lot more information in our Training Guide and every person taking part in our challenges will receive one in their Welcome Pack together with a Safety Guide. Together these will give you all the information and advice you need to start your journey to the 'big day' including our famous training plans.
In the meantime do start walking ...
... two or three times a week and as long as you are able to walk 3 miles (for Full Moon/Marathon) or 2 miles (for Half Moon/Marathon) at a constant and steady pace of approx 18 - 20 minutes per mile you will be on track to continue with the WTW training plan.
This is also a good time to 'walk in' new shoes, work out walking routes and find walking companions. Have a look at our Walking Pals database ...
Or contact Sally B on 01483 741430 or email sallyb@walkthewalk.org for more advice or information ...
Take a look at Nina's Book
If you are not walking with us, then this is a book about discovering how to power walk and the astounding number of benefits that come with it. It is not only learning how our bodies work, but also realising that our attitudes and beliefs, what we eat and drink and even how we breathe all create who we are. You will find out how small and simple changes can ultimately have a huge impact on your health, fitness, and quality of life. It was written by Walk the Walks founder Nina Barough