A NEW report has found that nearly one in five people are not walking enough.
So a leading walking charity has urged people in Dumfries and Galloway to take the next steps in 2024.
Paths for All facilitates regular Health Walks across Dumfriesshire, including at Dalbeattie, Dumfries, Gretna, Lochmaben, Moffat, Langholm, Annan and Powfoot.
They are open to all.
Commenting, Louise Bursle, of Paths for All, said: “We’re keen to eliminate barriers to make frequent walking possible for everyone in Scotland to reap wellbeing rewards.
“As we enter a new year, many people will be setting resolutions to be more active, but you don’t need to make big commitments to see the benefits. Just adding a short walk to your daily routine will have an impact.”
She also flagged up a lecture by Dr Fiona Bull, head of physical activity at the World Health Organisation, on how walking can save lives, and how Scotland is leading the charge.
Dr Bull said: “Walking more regularly can contribute to saving lives and brings so many health benefits; but too often, walking is not being promoted enough.
“The work Paths for All has been doing to get more people active is incredible, bringing communities together and ensuring all have access to walking groups, as well as upgrading infrastructure, and educating the public.
“According to data released from Scotland, the country is bucking the trend, with collective action there has been a seven per cent increase in physical activity, and to see that nearly all Scots are walking for health benefits is commendable.”
