The Woodstock Walk & Talk Group is about getting people together in the beautiful grounds of Blenheim Park or the glorious countryside of Woodstock. To meet new and old friends and connect in person and off-screen.
Everyone is welcome.
Whether you're a parent wanting to connect with others in the community, someone who wants to get outside and talk, or a homeworker who has suddenly released that they need to leave the house and get fresh air, talk to people face to face, or you'd like to incorporate some exercise into your day whilst having a relaxed chat. Then our Walk & Talk group is for you. (Approx 50/60-minute walk then coffee, Venue TBC)
The Last Thursday of the month at 1300 at Woodstock Town Hall (To tie in with lunch break and school pick up)
If you have a physical disability but would love to join us and you have a wheelchair, then please get in touch. We will do our best to ask fellow group walkers if anyone would like to assist and give you a gentle push around the course for the duration. (You will need to get yourself to the Town Hall starting point)
Please remember you will need a Blenheim pass to gain the park entrance. The only cost will be your coffee should you wish to join us for this after the walk. (Complimentary tea/ coffee for Project Active Tribe Members & Wake up to Woodstock members)
Please get in touch with us to let us know you are coming.
What are the dates?
April 27th,
May 25th,
June 29th,
July 27th,
August 31st,
September 28th,
October 26th,
November 30th,
December 21st (Xmas lunch to follow walk),
Project Active is a keen member of the Wake up to Woodstock group. This is also an excellent opportunity to meet fellow members with an on-street venue and our talented homeworkers to discuss everything locally. To pull our local community together and to learn more about what is happening in Woodstock and what we offer. (Great opportunity to discuss both business-to-business and business-to-customer.
Why get outdoors? "IT'S what We do...."
As our mission statement says - "We believe that movement is the medicine for the body and that the outdoors is the tonic for the mind. We aim to look after your physical and mental health by embracing the outdoors and green space as much as possible to introduce you to like-minded, supportive people and have as much fun as possible on your journey."
Also, being passionate about Woodstock, this a no-brainer service to support and offer our local community
Why is Walking the Most Popular Form of Exercise?
Walking is all the rage when it comes to simple ways to be healthy. You can get active in many ways, but walking is one of the easiest! For most people, it’s safe, easy to stick with, and cheap. It doesn’t require any special skills or equipment. Such a simple activity and it has so many benefits.
Research has shown that walking at a lively pace for at least 150 minutes a week can help you:
Think better, feel better and sleep better.
Reduce your risk of severe diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and several types of cancer.
Improve your blood pressure, blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels.
Increase your energy and stamina.
Improve your mental and emotional well-being and reduce the risk of depression.
Improve memory and reduce your risk of dementia.
Boost bone strength and reduce your risk of osteoporosis.
Prevent weight gain.
If 150 minutes sounds like a lot, remember that even short activity sessions can be added over the week to reach this goal. And it’s easy to fit in a few minutes of walking several times a day.
Walking vs Running Did you know more people walk for fitness than run? Maybe you’re not that into running. Or perhaps you’ve had an injury and can’t run anymore. Then walk — every step counts. Walking briskly can help your health as much as running, according to a 2013 research study.
How to walk for fitness
Gear up. All you need to get started are comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Keep your cool by layering clothing because exercise raises your body’s temperature. Shoes designed for walking or running are best but not required. Ensure you have a little wiggle room (about half an inch) between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Avoid cotton socks because they retain moisture and can lead to blisters. (Who knew?!)
Easy does it. If you’re out of shape, begin with short distances. Start with a comfortable stroll (perhaps 10-15 minutes) and gradually increase your time or space. If it’s easier on your body and your schedule, stick with a couple of 10- to 20-minute walks a day instead of one long walk.
Focus on form. Keep your head lifted (no texting!), your abs engaged, and your shoulders relaxed. Swing your arms naturally. Avoid carrying heavy items or hand weights because they can put extra stress on your elbows and shoulders – try a backpack instead. Stick to a comfortable, natural stride.
Breathe. Slow down if you can’t talk or catch your breath while walking. At first, forget about speed. Just get out there and walk!
Pick up the pace. To warm up, stroll for the first several minutes. Then gradually increase your speed.
Add variety and challenge. Try brisk intervals. For example, walk one path fast, two paths slow and repeat several times. Over time you’ll be able to add faster breaks with shorter recovery periods. Walking hills or stairs is a great way to increase muscle tone and burn more calories.
Stretch. The end of your walk is a great time to stretch since your body is warmed up. Stretch your hamstrings, calves, chest, shoulders and back. Hold each stretch for 15 to 30 seconds.
Track your progress. Fit walking into your schedule whenever you can. That may mean three several short walks a day. When you can fit it in, longer walks will help you improve your stamina. Just remember that your overall goal is at least 150 minutes each week.
Stay safe while walking on your own.
Be alert. Listening to music while you walk can help keep you energized. And making phone calls is an excellent way to multitask. But if you use headphones, keep the volume low and watch out for traffic you may not hear. Don’t text or stare at your device while walking, so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Stand out. Wear light colours or reflective clothing and carry a torch or glow stick (it adds to the fun!) if you walk when visibility is low.
Be street smart. Walking on paths is best, but if you have to walk on the road, stick to streets with lower speed limits and ensure drivers can see you.
Know the neighbourhood. Note which businesses are open when you’ll be walking and the location of emergency telephones. Walk on well-travelled streets rather than taking shortcuts through alleys or big car parks.
Listen to your body. If you have foot, knee, hip or back pain when walking, STOP and check with your doctor to find the cause. You may need different shoes or another form of activity like cycling or water exercise. But don’t give up! Find the activity that’s right for you.
Just Walk Maybe you haven’t been active for a while. No problem! Just get started. It’s not all or nothing… it’s step-by-step. Even if you’re already active, here are some easy ways you can add more steps to your day:
Grab the lead and take the dog out for a walk.
Forget about rock star parking. Park a bit farther from the entrance to your workplace, school, supermarket, restaurants, etc.
Take the stairs instead of the lifts, even for one or two floors.
Catch up with a friend by walking while you chat on the phone.
