People looking to improve their fitness and mental wellbeing are being encouraged to get walking and make the most of Staffordshire’s beautiful outdoor spaces.
Health leaders at Staffordshire County Council are reminding residents that walking is one of the easiest ways to improve physical and mental health. Regular walks can help reduce the risk of serious health conditions, boost mood, improve sleep and increase energy levels.
A brisk walk, at a pace where you can talk but not sing, is enough to deliver health benefits. To keep things interesting, walkers can listen to music or podcasts, explore new routes and green spaces, join a local walking group, or download the NHS Active 10 app. The app supports people to turn walking into a healthy habit by tracking 10 minutes of brisk walking at a time. The Staffordshire Health App Finder can also help people find safe and effective apps to support their health and wellbeing.
Martin Rogerson, Cabinet Member for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, said:
"Walking is a simple activity that can have a huge impact on both physical and mental wellbeing.
“Walking doesn't need expensive equipment and can easily become part of everyday life. Whether you're taking a short lunchtime stroll, enjoying a family walk at the weekend or exploring the great outdoors, every step can make a difference.
“Staffordshire's outdoor spaces also offer wonderful places to get active, enjoy nature and improve your health while spending time in beautiful surroundings."
Michael, from Newcastle, is one person who has discovered the benefits of walking. Since joining the county council’s INTO project over a year ago, he has been more motivated and happier. Joined by his springer spaniel, Archie, Michael looks forward to each gathering and walk, promising fresh air and friendly faces.
People can make walking part of everyday life by wearing comfortable, supportive footwear and building up their distance gradually if they are not currently very active.
Staffordshire County Council has numerous country parks, each offering unique landscapes and walking opportunities. These include:
- Apedale Community Country Park, once a hive of industrial activity, has been transformed into a thriving natural habitat with walking routes through grassland, woodland and former mining landscapes.
- Cannock Chase Country Park is one of the largest country parks in England, offering miles of walking trails through heathland, woodland and open countryside.
- Chasewater Country Park is home to the historic Chasewater Reservoir, originally created as a canal feeder and still the largest canal feeder reservoir in use today, with scenic waterside routes for visitors to enjoy.
- Deep Hayes Country Park features a picturesque mix of woods, meadows and pools, creating a peaceful setting for walking and wildlife spotting.
- Greenway Bank Country Park, which has lovely heritage trails for walkers to explore.
