New interactive map shows short walks, distance, time and step count!
Our new interactive map shows sixteen Walk This Way routes which will encourage islanders, especially those who live or work in St Peter Port or St Sampson, to fit short walks into daily life.
Islanders will also find a sign at the start of each route which shows the distance, duration and number of steps that each walk would add to thier daily activity.
Routes include a range of starting points from Salerie Corner, Rouge Rue, Footes Lane and the Val de Terres, and show how just a few short walks each day can add up to big increases in physical activity.
Walking in Guernsey - a simple pleasure with immediate benefits
Walking is often underestimated when it comes to the best ways to keep active and the rewards are almost instant!
The beauty of walking is its simplicity. Slip on a pair of shoes, open the front door and off you go. It’s accessible and free, with no gym membership or special kit needed... apart from a waterproof and umbrella perhaps!. Walking is perfect for people who have poor health, or don’t fancy intense exercise.
Less than half of Guernsey adults achieve the recommended 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week and walking counts towards those all-important guidelines. Walking is a great ‘gateway’ to the world of keeping active, boosting confidence and encouraging people to explore other activities.
But it's not just about an occasional one-off feel good factor. Brisk walking, in particular, also boosts the production of stress-busting endorphins, improves self-perception and self-esteem, mood and sleep quality, reduces stress, anxiety and fatigue.
People who keep active have up to a 30% reduced risk of becoming depressed and being active helps people who have depression recover. Staying active through walking can improve older people's cognitive function, memory and attention. It also reduces the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
And let’s not forget that walking has positive benefits for the whole community too. By leaving the car at home you’re helping to reduce pollution, cut back on traffic and make the island and world a greener place.
So why not check out the Walk This Way interactive map and sign boards and put your best foot forwards!
We are very grateful to Digimap and sponsorship from the Co-op Helping Hands initiative which supported the project.