The Joy of Walking in Retirement

As spring unfolds and May paints the countryside with fresh greens and bursts of colour, there’s no better time to dust off your walking shoes and head outdoors. The days are longer, the air is warmer, and nature puts on a show that’s not to be missed – especially when every stroll can be as sociable as it is scenic.

For many Adlington homeowners, walking is more than just a way to pass the time – it’s a lifestyle that keeps both body and mind in excellent shape.

The Joy of Walking in Retirement

Margaret and Keith, homeowners at The Spindles in Menston, are keen walkers and know how rewarding it can be. “We do brisk walking. We’ve always done it. About eight or nine miles was my maximum when I was in a walking group. But now we do a mile and a half every morning, and then we go out again on some days. We like walking. We’ve driven up to Burnsall and walked up to Grassington. It’s lovely in the Yorkshire Dales. We have a
cup of coffee and then walk back. We’ve driven to Whitby too, and we’ve walked from Sandsend into Whitby and back.”

It’s clear that for many retirees, walking isn’t about speed or distance, but the pure enjoyment of movement, nature, and conversation. Margaret added, “We’ve also started a little walking group going around the grounds and
looking at the gardens. Yesterday there were about 10 of us. Keith was out with some friends, and when he came back, we were all having coffee after our walk. There were two of the duty managers there and Jane, the general
manager, popped in. The atmosphere was brilliant.”

Health Benefits Of Walking That Go Beyond The Obvious

Trevor, a retired GP who moved to The Sidings in Lytham, is no stranger to the medical advantages of an active lifestyle. “I make sure that if I can’t get out into Lytham, I do two laps of The Sidings in the morning and two laps in the afternoon. I think four laps is not much short of a mile so that’s the least that I do.”

As someone who understands the science behind health and ageing, Trevor reflects on the value of social interaction too. “I think one of the big benefits of moving to a retirement community is the stimulus of other people at this time of life. If somebody has been on their own, as I know very well, you can sink into not wanting to do anything… The stimulus of moving into a place like this can be of great benefit.”

Walking With Pets: A Joy Shared

For dog lovers like Ann and Harry, homeowners at The Sidings, walking is also about companionship. “Ann’s had dogs all her life. Tinka’s been all over Europe with her. Ann walks Tinka and Olga first thing in the morning for an hour and a half and then she goes for another hour and a half late in the afternoon.” said Harry.

Whether you’re exploring a quiet park or sitting in a sunny garden, pets offer structure and motivation to get moving and they’re great ice-breakers. “When I walk them, we like to sit in the corner area in the sunshine, where the raised beds are. Everything’s lovely and Ann never stops laughing,” he added.

A Stroll With New Friends

There’s more to walking than the physical side – it’s also about being part of something. Whether it’s a regular walking club, impromptu garden strolls, or planned group outings, walking in retirement communities helps create
bonds.

As Margaret, a homeowner at The Folds in Romiley, says, “I enjoy walking and belong to the walking club here. I didn’t know that Romiley had so many interesting walks. There are four to six of us in the group who go for a walk every Friday. A while back we took the bus to the Etherow Country Park. It was lovely and cool there because it’s all tree-covered, so we walked about three and a half miles and then caught the bus back.”

Tips For Getting The Most Out Of  Your Walks

Start small: If you’re new to walking regularly, begin with 10-15 minute strolls and gradually increase.

Stay social: Join a group or ask neighbours to join you. Shared walks can be more enjoyable.

Use nature apps: Apps like Pl@ntNet or iNaturalist can help identify wildflowers and birds along your route.

Embrace the weather: A light drizzle doesn’t have to stop you – just be prepared.

Change it up: Variety keeps walking interesting. Alternate between woods, parks, pavements, and gardens.

Aside from the enjoyment of the sociable walking groups across our communities, there are many other well-being benefits of moving to a retirement community. You can read more in this feature or find a community near you.

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