Walk Safely
Whether you're walking alone or with others, these tips will help make the walk more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Wear comfortable clothing and flat well fitting shoes. You may wish to keep a 'posh' pair of shoes at work to change into and wear a pair of trainers to walk in.
- Use paths and pavements whenever available. If you must walk on or near a road or street, face oncoming traffic so you can see drivers and they can see you.
- Use pedestrian crossings wherever possible.
- Be visible if you are walking at dusk or in the dark. You may consider wearing a lighter coloured jacket. Remember although it is easy for you to see the vehicle, they may have trouble seeing you clearly at dusk or in the dark. Reflective strips on a jacket can be helpful if lighting is poor.
- We don't recommend the use of headphones as hearing contributes to safety - listening out for traffic while crossing the road is one example. There may also be alternative natural sounds to hear like birdsong!
- In warmer weather, remember to take a bottle of water with you and drink from it regularly.
- Be sure to get advice from your GP before increasing your exercise if you have anything in your medical history that is a cause for concern eg heart problems.
- Do build up gently if you have been inactive for a period. Start out gradually and build up your walking pace and distance slowly.
- It's important to be safe, so ensure the route you use is well-lit and well used at the time you are walking. Walking in a group from work can be a good idea and build new friendships.