Struggling to find the motivation to go out walking? Try our tips on how to keep things interesting...
Do it by the book
Walking the same route can get monotonous, so distract yourself with a good book. There are thousands available in audio form at audible.co.uk. Plug into a new novel or a favourite classic, or teach yourself a new language.
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Be adventurous
Seeking out pastures new? For £18 a year you can have unlimited access to the 7000 routes at walkingworld.com. Walking holidays are also an ideal way to get fit and enjoy spectacular scenery.
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Listen up
Going abroad? Walking is by far the best way to get to know a city and get off the beaten track. Next time you visit a major city, why not download an audio guide to take with you? All you need to do is go to the starting point, press play and follow the directions.
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Pick up the pace
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, try Nordic walking, in which you use poles to work the muscles of the upper body and increase your walking speed, helping tone arms, chest, stomach, bottom and hips. See nordicwalking.co.uk for more details.
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Group together
Walking with someone else means you can’t decide to skip it at the last minute, and it can be much more enjoyable, too. Walk around your local area with a friend or neighbour (pick up an Ordnance Survey map, available from larger bookshops, for inspiration). If you’re looking for a walking group, you could find one to suit you at ramblers.org.uk.
Push it
Think you can’t walk a decent distance because you’ve got a small child? Think again. At walkswithbuggies.com, you’ll find routes in your area, which have been tested out by parents with pushchairs. Lots of them are child-friendly, too, with picnic areas and places to feed the ducks en route.