Date
Thursday
May

May 1-31

National Walking Month

Step into National Walking Month with us and discover the benefits of this simple yet effective form of exercise for your mind, body, and soul!

Yearly Date
May 1
Type
Month
Category
Health

Introduction

Get ready to lace up your sneakers and hit the streets because May 1 marks the start of National Walking Month! This month-long celebration encourages people to incorporate more walking into their daily routine for both physical and mental health benefits. Did you know that walking has been a popular mode of transportation since ancient times? It's also a great way to explore your surroundings, save money on gas, and reduce your carbon footprint. So let's take this opportunity to embrace a healthier lifestyle and enjoy all the perks that come with it!

National Walking Month Timeline

4000-2000 BC
Origination of Walking as a Mode of Transport
Walking was the main form of transportation in ancient civilizations, connecting rural and urban communities in Mesopotamia and Egypt.
1800s
Walking Becomes Leisurely Activity
In the 19th century, walking became a popular leisure activity, often referred to as "pedestrianism," and was considered a spectator sport in England and America.
1953
First Man to Reach Mount Everest Summit
Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest on foot, emphasising the importance and respect for walking challenges.
1970s
Walking for Health Benefits
The medical community began recommending walking as part of a healthy lifestyle routine in the 1970s, for both physical and mental health benefits.
2014
Inauguration of National Walking Month
The initiative to declare May as National Walking Month was established by the UK charity Living Streets in 2014, to encourage people to walk more.

How to Celebrate National Walking Month

1

Take a walking tour

Explore your city or a nearby town by taking a guided walking tour. Not only will you get some exercise, but you'll also learn about the history and culture of the area.

2

Go on a nature hike

Find a nearby hiking trail and take a leisurely walk through nature. You'll get some fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery while getting in some exercise.

3

Participate in a charity walk

Join a charity walk or fun run to support a cause you care about. It's a great way to give back while also staying active.

4

Create a walking scavenger hunt

Gather some friends and create a walking scavenger hunt around your neighborhood or a local park. It's a fun and interactive way to get some exercise while exploring your surroundings.

5

Host a walking challenge

Challenge your friends, family, or coworkers to see who can walk the most steps in a month. Offer a prize for the winner to make it even more exciting and motivating.

Why We Love National Walking Month

A

Walking is great exercise

Walking is a low-impact exercise that has numerous health benefits, such as improving cardiovascular health, reducing stress and boosting overall mood. National Walking Month encourages people to prioritize their physical health by taking daily walks, which can greatly improve overall wellness.

B

It can be done anywhere

One of the best things about walking is that it can be done almost anywhere - in your neighborhood, at the park, or even on a treadmill. This allows for flexibility and makes it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Plus, you can experience different environments while getting in some exercise!

C

It's a great way to connect with nature

National Walking Month promotes not only physical health, but also mental well-being. Taking walks outside allows for time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. It's a wonderful opportunity to appreciate your surroundings, clear your mind and reduce stress.

National Walking Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 30
Sunday
2024
Apr 30
Tuesday
2025
Apr 30
Wednesday
2026
Apr 30
Thursday
2027
Apr 30
Friday