The London Marathon, set for Sunday 27th April 2025, will see thousands of runners pounding the capital’s streets, inspiring many to wonder: could I complete a marathon? For those who don’t run, a growing movement offers an answer: the walking marathon. Events like The MoonWalk London 2025, organised by cancer charity Walk the Walk, are making marathon dreams accessible to all, no running shoes required.
The MoonWalk London, taking place on Saturday 17th May 2025, is the original overnight walking marathon, covering the full 26.2-mile distance. Starting and finishing at Clapham Common, it draws thousands of participants who walk through the night to raise funds for cancer causes. For those new to fitness walking, Walk the Walk also offers a 15.1-mile half marathon option and a family-friendly 5K ZOOM Walk on the morning of 17 May, welcoming all ages and abilities.
They combine the prestige of a marathon with the inclusivity of walking, an activity most people can do. May 2025 also marks National Walking Month, which highlights walking’s benefits for physical and mental health. A survey commissioned by Walk the Walk found that 82% of adults say walking boosts their mood and mental health, while 69% walk at least once or twice a week to support their wellbeing. In a fast-paced world, walking is proving to be a powerful, accessible tool for self-care.
Sarah Toule, 41, from Melbourne, Cambridgeshire, embodies the spirit of the walking marathon. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 at age 40, she is taking on the Full Moon 26.2-mile challenge at The MoonWalk London 2025. “I’ve never done a marathon before – and I’m not a runner – but completing a marathon has always been on my bucket list,” she said. “After a hard year, I’m feeling strong and loving all the training walks with all the local school mums in our MoonWalk team. By completing my first marathon, if I can help even one other person like me, I will be very happy.”
They foster community, resilience, and purpose. Participants like Toule often form teams, training together and sharing stories of personal triumph. The MoonWalk’s overnight format adds a unique camaraderie, with walkers donning decorated bras and bright costumes to light up London’s streets. The event has raised millions for cancer charities since its inception, funding research, support services, and awareness campaigns.
For those inspired to try a walking marathon, Walk the Walk offers resources to ease beginners into training. Their website provides tips on building endurance, choosing footwear, and staying motivated. The charity encourages participants to start small, perhaps with the 5K ZOOM Walk, and gradually work up to longer distances. National Walking Month also promotes initiatives like workplace walking challenges and community strolls, making it an ideal time to start.
According to a 2024 report by Sport England, walking for leisure has surged in popularity, with 19.2 million adults in England walking at least once a month. Its low cost and flexibility make it appealing across ages and fitness levels. Events like The MoonWalk London tap into this, offering a goal-oriented challenge that doubles as a celebration of health and solidarity.
