Why The Ramblers rate Winter walking so much
Our mates over at British walking charity The Ramblers have put together a topical top ten to remind us all why walking at this time of year is such a great idea. So if you’re looking for some motivation to help you step away from that big tub of Celebrations let The Ramblers’ Walking Experience Programmes Manager Heather Thompson fill you in on all the various fun reasons behind going for a walk this Winter:
It’s chillier, darker, wetter and frostier, but that’s no reason to hang up your walking boots until the spring! From the health and wellbeing benefits, to the opportunity for unexpected seasonal adventures, there are so many reasons to step outside this winter. Britain’s walking charity, the Ramblers, is encouraging everyone to embrace the season ahead; to wrap up warm head out for a winter walk. From a leisurely local meander to a rugged challenge, a picturesque stroll to a dramatic stomp, it’s time to get outdoors! Whether you’re a seasoned walker or new to embracing the outdoors in colder temperatures, Heather Thompson, Walking Experience Programmes Manager at the Ramblers, offers 10 reasons to enjoy all that walking has to offer in winter, with tips to open the way for everyone.
It Lifts Your Mood
A brisk 10-minute walk increases serotonin, improves alertness, and helps combat Seasonal Affective Disorder. Whether solo or with friends, walking is a simple way to feel sharper and more positive. Everyone can try three group walks for free before joining the Ramblers, which can be a great way to get started.
It Helps Keep You Fit and Healthy
Whether you’re staying warm or indulging in all those festive treats, it’s easy to stay indoors in winter. Yet winter walking does more than burn off festive indulgences, it helps you stay fit and fight off health risks. Just 20 minutes a day can lower your risk of heart disease, and 10,000 steps could slash the risk of dementia by 50%.
It Boosts Your Mental Health
The winter season starts with a busy and sometimes overwhelming festive time of year. Stepping outside can be the perfect answer to reducing stress levels, sparking clarity and reconnecting you to the simple things in life. Noticing three good things in nature can significantly improve your mental health and winter’s landscapes can be wonderfully enriching and restorative.
It’s A Perfect Time Of Year To Go Stargazing
Stargazing on a clear winter’s night can be magical. Look out for different constellations, planets you can name, and if you’re lucky, even see a shooting star. The Ramblers website offers some handy tips to help you get the most from a moonlit walk.
It Makes Seasonal Treats Taste Even Better
Winter walks come with rewards! From hot chocolate to gingerbread cookies, a cheeky mulled wine to a baked camembert, delicious seasonal treats taste even better after a cold, crisp, brisk walk.
It’s The Best Way To Discover Local Festivities
From the OTT Christmas lights down the street to twinkling trails and festive markets, there’s a plethora of seasonal charm waiting to be explored. Walking is the best way to see what you might discover and soak it all up.
It Can Bring Bingeworthy Box Sets To Life
If you’ve spent rainy winter days watching your favourite characters fill landscapes with drama, take a walk in their shoes and explore these cinematic locations for yourself. The Ramblers routes library features walking routes for everyone, including some inspired by iconic series like Peaky Blinders, Outlander and the Netflix hit, ‘One Day’.
It Can Create New Rituals
Whatever you’re celebrating in the winter season, encourage a winter walk together with family and friends to connect, talk, laugh and create new memories and traditions.
It Helps To Embrace The Rain
Don’t let the rain stop you—walking in wet weather has some surprising benefits. Rain releases mood-boosting negative ions, clears the air for fresher breathing, and adds a sensory element with soothing sounds and an earthy petrichor scent. Walking in wet, windy weather might take a little extra preparation but the Ramblers offer tips on kit to keep you dry.
It Offers Stunning Winter Scenery
The cold days of winter transform the British countryside into a wonderland of frozen lakes, frosted hills and snowy, pretty forests making it one of the most rewarding and festive times of the year to be out on the trail.
Find out more about the amazing work The Ramblers do and become a member HERE.
