Seven Incredible Benefits Of Group Walking

We’ve partnered with YHA to support the Festival of Walking, created to help more people experience the wonders of the great outdoors in collaboration with British Mountaineering Council (BMC), Ramblers and Ordnance Survey (OS). In this blog, YHA share why walking has such a powerful influence and the benefits of adventuring outdoors with a group. 

While walking alone can be just as enjoyable, there's something special about walking with others. Read on to discover seven benefits of walking together and how it can elevate your experience exploring the great outdoors.  

Walking in a group provides an excellent opportunity for catching up with friends and family or meeting new people with shared interests. It allows you to connect with like-minded people who share your passion for exploring our beautiful landscapes on foot. Talking, sharing stories, and building new friendships are just a few reasons why walking together can be more enjoyable and fulfilling. 

Why not join a free guided social walk this autumn? As part of YHA Festival of Walking, our social walks offer a supportive and safe space to get walking. You’ll get the chance to meet other walkers like you and build confidence while you’re out and about. 

You may enjoy walking alone, but you can’t beat a ramble with friends and family. It can turn a regular stroll into a chance to catch up while surrounded by nature. Share stories about other walks in the area, your favourite part of the trail, or even take your group to your most-loved café or wild swimming spot. 

Walking with friends and family allows you to connect, strengthens bonds, and creates long-lasting memories together.

Walking with friends or as part of a group can boost your motivation. Plus, it keeps you accountable. Knowing that others are expecting you to show up for the walk creates a sense of commitment which can be helpful if you struggle with self-motivation. 

When you're feeling less motivated, the encouragement from your walking group members can help you push through and stay on track. Whether you’re struggling to get up and go, or feel like you can’t possibly conquer that hill, support from your peers makes all the difference. 

Walking is free. It can be enjoyed by anyone, anytime and anywhere. Whether it's a gentle stroll around your local park, a thrilling hike in the mountains, or a wander along a sandy beach, walking allows us to immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and sensations of our stunning surroundings. It’s a free way to reconnect with nature, explore new perspectives, and experience the great outdoors.  

Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of walking. Group walks often have scheduled meeting times, helping you establish a regular walking routine. Having a set time and place to meet with your fellow walkers helps you to stick to your routine and ensures you're getting the physical activity your body needs. 

As well as being good for your physical health, it’s great to have regular social time and the chance to connect with others while doing an activity you enjoy.  

Walking in a group opens a world of possibilities for exploring new trails and destinations, and there’s plenty to discover in England and Wales. Each group member brings their own knowledge and experiences, suggesting different paths, parks, or scenic trails to visit nearby.  

Discovering new routes and enjoying nature's beauty together add an extra element of excitement to your walks. It’s always good fun to discover something new, and even more so when you can share your discovery with others. To help with this, we created our self-guided maps for exploring new areas. From countryside and coast to city and mountains, we’re sure we have something for you to get stuck into.  

Walking in a group not only benefits your physical health but also contributes to your mental well-being. Connecting with others, laughing, and feeling a sense of belonging can boost your mood and aid better sleep.  

The support and energy within the walking group can create a positive and uplifting atmosphere, making you want to ramble again and again! 

Thanks to Hannah from YHA for sharing the benefits of walking as a group!  

Explore the ways you can get involved in this year’s Festival of Walking and remember to stop by your nearest Cotswold Outdoor store for advice on finding the perfect kit for you.