With National Walking Day approaching on Wednesday 2nd April, cancer charity Walk the Walk is urging people to lace up their shoes and step out for their mental well-being. A recent survey of 2,000 adults, conducted by One Poll in January 2025 for the charity, underscores the profound impact of walking. It found that 71% of respondents believe spending time on self-care enhances their productivity, while an overwhelming 82% report that going for a walk and staying active lifts their mood and mental health.

Founded by Nina Barough CBE, Walk the Walk has long championed walking as a tool for physical and emotional resilience. Barough has crafted five practical tips to help people weave walking into their daily lives. These steps aim to make the activity a sustainable habit, accessible to all, regardless of schedule or weather.

Nina Barough’s five tips for making walking a habit are:

• Put a walk in your diary. Pick a time of day that suits you best and make daily lunchtime walking a routine.
• Plan several walking routes for different distances and times. You’ll always know where you’re going, how far, and for how long.
• Have suitable comfortable clothing and shoes for any weather. Some of the worst weather days can deliver the most rewarding walks.
• Invest in a tracking device or app. Tracking your daily steps can be a powerful motivator.
• Every step counts. Engage your core, even when walking to the kettle, to maximise benefits.

The charity is also gearing up for its signature fundraising events on Saturday 17 May at Clapham Common. The MoonWalk London, an iconic overnight challenge, will see thousands of participants don decorated bras and bright t-shirts to raise funds and awareness for breast and other cancers. Walkers can choose between the Full Moon (26.2 miles) or Half Moon (15.1 miles) routes, with options to join in person or virtually. Registration is open at www.walkthewalk.org, with a discount offer: sign up and save 50% on a friend’s entry fee.

For those seeking a shorter challenge, the 5K ZOOM Walk returns by popular demand on the same morning. Open to all ages and abilities, gates open at 10:15 am. Entry costs £19.99 for adults and £12 for under-16s, including a walker number, medal, cap, hot drink, muffin, and fundraising support. A minimum fundraising goal of £30 applies, and pre-registration is required online.

Walk the Walk’s mission extends beyond fundraising. The charity is dedicated to encouraging healthier lifestyles and empowering people to take charge of their well-being. Known for its flagship MoonWalk events in London, Scotland, and Iceland, it has raised over £143 million to date. These funds support cancer prevention, research, and care for those affected. The charity also pioneered awareness campaigns like “Men Can Get Breast Cancer Too” and “Anyone Can Get Breast Cancer,” spotlighting often-overlooked groups.

The survey’s findings resonate with a growing body of evidence on walking’s mental health benefits. Studies from reputable sources, such as the Mental Health Foundation, affirm that regular physical activity like walking can reduce anxiety and improve mood. For Walk the Walk, this aligns with its holistic approach to cancer care, addressing both physical and emotional needs.

As National Walking Day nears, the charity’s call to action is clear: step outside, prioritise yourself, and support a cause that transforms lives. Whether it’s a stroll to the kettle or a marathon through the night, every step counts.