Walking: How to start a walking group

Starting a walking group requires little effort and provides big rewards. Simply spread the word and get organized. Soon you'll be walking toward better health.

By Mayo Clinic staff

If you crave solitude, walking on your own might be the perfect workout. But if you'd rather not go it alone, bring others along for your walking adventures. Getting support from others by walking together can actually help you stick with your health and fitness goals. To do that, consider starting a walking group. Starting a walking group isn't that hard, and the rewards may well be worth a little extra trouble.

Enjoy the benefits of a walking group

You already know the health benefits of walking. Here's what else you get when you walk with others:

  • Safety
  • Socialization
  • Accountability
  • Friendship
  • Motivation

Recruit members for your walking group

To start a walking group, just spread the word. Talk up your walking group among your family members, friends and neighbors. You might be surprised to find that you're surrounded by people who are ready to lace up their walking shoes — and hold each other accountable for regular exercise.

Maybe you'd prefer recruiting colleagues. Ask your employer about having a friendly workplace competition. Challenge those in your work group to a pedometer contest, for example. The group that achieves the most steps takes home bragging rights or a simple prize. Or, keep track of the number of minutes of activity for the group and see who comes out on top each week.

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References
  1. Walking: A step in the right direction. Weight-control Information Network. http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/walking.htm. Accessed Feb. 21, 2011.
  2. Coghill N, et al. Motivators and de-motivators for adherence to a program of sustained walking. Preventive Medicine. 2009;49:24.
  3. Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 22, 2011.
SM00062_D March 19, 2011

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