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Walking to work

Walking to work

Why walk?

According to health professionals we should walk 10,000 steps a day to benefit our health. Why not invest in a cheap pedometer and start counting?

Regular walking is a good cardiovascular workout, burns calories and reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, asthma and some cancers.

If you live too far away to walk all of the way you could combine public transport with walking. Or, consider parking a mile away and walking the rest of the way. You might be surprised how a little extra exercise can invigorate you for the day.

Top tips

Plan your route. You don’t have to walk the same route that you would normally drive. You will probably find quieter side streets and paths more pleasant. Use an online journey planner to find the quickest, quietest and flattest route.two people walking on a pavement

Estimate your walking time first so that you are not late for work. Plan to walk a mile in 20 minutes or a kilometre in 12 minutes. Allow slightly longer if you have to cross many streets with traffic light crossings. Time yourself on the first couple of days to get a more accurate idea of your walking pace.

Shoes and clothing:

  • Wear comfortable shoes like trainers. You can always carry a pair of smarter shoes or leave a pair at work.
  • Wear clothing that doesn’t restrict your leg movement. Pencil skirts might not be such a good idea!
  • Be prepared for the great British weather by wearing layers and carrying a telescopic umbrella. Waterproof clothing is useful when it really pours down, but studies have found that on average it only rains eight times a year during morning or afternoon rush hour. Check the weather forecast before you go.
  • Light-coloured clothing, particularly during the winter months, will help to make you more visible to others.

Carrying stuff. Consider switching to a back pack rather than carrying a briefcase or heavy bag. This will help prevent back ache and be better for your posture.

Staying fresh. If you are worried that you’ll get too hot and bothered give yourself a few minutes to cool down and dry off when you arrive.

Tips for staying fresh:

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Change into a fresh shirt
  • Consider taking a bus or train to work and then walking home instead

Run to work

For those who fancy more of a challenge, why not try running to work instead? For more information, see our top tips on running to work.

Are you an employer?

Our Travel Devon Toolkit for businesses provides the business case for promoting walking and active working in the sedentary office environment.

The Travel Devon Toolkit gives you exclusive access to:

  • a travel audit
  • a travel survey
  • guidance on sustainable travel measures
  • templates, resources and more.

Register on the Travel Devon Toolkit website and find out how your site facilities, workplace initiatives and policies can support your staff to walk or run to work.