Walking for Health in East Devon – Make it your New Year’s Resolution
If you are a regular reader to my blog you will have got the idea that I love to find new places to walk. Walking is something I’ve enjoyed for many years with friends and family in this country and abroad, often making new friends on the way. A few years ago I discovered the Walking for Health in East Devon scheme by tagging along with my mum!
Walking is something I enjoy more now. I am learning that this can be a lot nicer, more sociable and kinder on the knees than heading for the gym or going for a run.
Walking for Fresh Air and Exercise
It’s well known that walking is good for your health. It does not need to be a 10 mile hike. If you have been suffering from ill health or are recovering from an operation then even 15 minutes may be of benefit. Being outside is also proven to be a great help to mental health and I know how much better I feel after a good dose of fresh air.
Walking For Health in East Devon
The other aspect of walking is meeting new people and this is one of the great elements of the Wellbeing Walks programme . This is a free volunteer programme, coordinated by Leisure East Devon.
The scheme offers weekly walks of varying grades in East Devon with the aim of getting people of all abilities active.
For those just starting out Grade 1 is gentle pace for 20 to 30 minutes following flat footpaths or pavements. Walks work up to Level 3 which is 60 to 90 minutes of more moderate walking on a range of footpaths which may include hills or styles.
Walk This Way in East Devon
The walks nearly always end with a coffee stop so you can relax afterwards and feel pleased with your efforts. The walks are extremely friendly, a great way to met people and no one will judge your ability.
You can decide on the day how far you want to walk and join the group that best suits you.
Where are the East Devon Walks are Based?
Depending on where you live or what day you are available, walks are run in different areas at a range of starting points. You will need to drive to reach most of them but there may be the chance for lift shares especially once to get to know people.
The groups meet in a variety of places in the general location, you will need to check the programme for details, online here, or leaflets available from doctors surgeries, libraries and tourist information centres. Walks start at 10.30am (arrive by 10.15am to register). There are 4 area groups that meet on the following days.
Sid Valley – Monday and Wednesday
Exmouth – Tuesday and Saturday
Colyton & Seaton – Wednesday
Axminster and Axe Valley – Friday
If you are interested in joining one of the walks you can turn up on the day – take a look at the current programme here, or if you have any questions contact the Walking For Health team on 01395 562500 or email outreach@ledleisure.co.uk
So why not start your New Year in a fantastically positive, free way and make the move to a fitter and healthier you.
Lots more Devon Walks and Walking Groups
On my blog there are lots of other walks that you may like to try. Most are short (1 or 2 miles) but usually offer ideas for extending the route for more of a challenge.
If you are already more advanced in your walking then the Ramblers is a great organisation with a well established group in East Devon with many walks on offer. Their programme is online and you can find them on Facebook as well. Note there is a monthly or annual fee to join the Ramblers association. Also locally is a group called Lyme Bay Ladies that organises local walks of different lengths.
I really hope that even if you think you are not at all fit, then the Wellbeing Walks might inspire you to give it a go. Why not make it your New Year’s Resolution to try it just once, you never no where it might take you!
If you already enjoy these walks please leave a comment below to share your experience.
Clare
Hi! I am Clare and I live in glorious East Devon with my family.
Join me in finding new places to explore in the West Country as well as further afield.
I hope you enjoy reading and taking inspiration from this website. 
This is such a great idea – for fitness, mental wellbeing and socialising. I’m hoping to get out and enjoy more walking in Devon in the New Year. Hope you enjoy:)
East Devon seems like an awesome place for walking and hiking, Clare. Excellent travel destination which I will add to my bucket list!
I love this initiative. Walking is indeed brilliant for both physical and mental health and the fact that this is run entirely by volunteers shows a great community spirit. Thanks for joining us on #adventurecalling . I hope you can tomorrow when it opens again.
What a great idea! Walking is such a fantastic way to get outdoors, get healthier and meet new people. I wish everywhere was as proactive as your local area. It’s also such a great way to find new places, I find that I take more notice and see more when I’m walking as opposed to driving around. I look forward to reading about more of your walks this year. Thanks for sharing #AdventureCalling
I am a 74yo Gent, and have a number of disabilities, including replacement hips and knees. I am also main carer for my Partner Andrew who has MS. Lately, I have been thinking about walking as a way of (a) bringing my weight down, and (b) getting a bit fitter. The trouble is where do I start? I live in Seaton, on the South East coast of Devon.
Sorry my email address is all in lower case, Not being good with IT, I can’t change the capitals on this form.
Thank you for reaching out to me here, I have replied to your email with a link to Walking for Health details, a local scheme which could be perfect for you. https://www.ledleisure.co.uk/walking-for-health