Greater Manchester Walking will launch its first virtual GM Walking Festival and see city-region residents collectively walk around the world.
The Let’s Walk Festival will take place between 12th and 25th October 2020 and aims for residents of Greater Manchester to collectively walk 25,000 miles in that time, equivalent to travelling once around the world.
Those signing up to be part of the Festival will need to log their steps, time or distance walked each day during 12-25th October to contribute to the Greater Manchester goal. Participants will be able to raise funds for good causes if they choose.
The Festival is for new and experienced walkers alike, and participants of all ages we hope there are goals, and activities that appeal to all.
The Let’s Walk Festival website has lots of walking activities, goals and challenges that people can sign up to take part in.
- Some may wish to take part because walking is their passion.
- Others may use the Festival as a kick start for new fitness or active travel habits.
- For many, walking is an ideal way to manage stress or maintain a sense of wellbeing.
- There are also ideas to keep children interested.
Employers can also get involved to help employees benefit from the mental health and well-being improvements that come with being more active. Businesses can encourage staff to walk as part of their commute, or if working from home, take phone calls on breaks on the move. It could also be used as a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative to help raise funds for a good cause.
People will need to visit the Let’s Walk Festival website and choose a walking activity that appeals, then sign up to the festival using a phone, tablet or computer.
Then, during the festival fortnight, use a phone or activity tracker to record steps, the amount of time or the distance walked. Participants will see their progress towards that particular goal, and their contribution to the overall GM Walking Festival goal of walking 25,000 miles.