Q.
How long are the walks?
A.
Most walks generally last for two hours and cover three to four miles depending upon terrain and the capabilities of the party. There are also some longer walks for regular participants.
Each walk is paced to suit the needs of everyone in the group, so don’t worry about ‘keeping up’. The basic requirement is that is that you need to be able to walk at up to two miles an hour for up to two hours (this period includes a break so please bring a drink).
Regular participants have found their levels of fitness increase and this has led to a demand for some 5/6 mile walks. Make sure you check the programme and only attempt the longer walks if you have been taking part in Walkaday for a while.
Walking is one of the best ways to improve your health and fitness. Why not start with our short walks and see how your fitness improves weekly? Walkaday provides a starting point for people who are new to walking and an opportunity to enjoy the countryside for people who may feel that the activities of walking clubs too strenuous. Regular, fit walkers must be prepared to accept an easy leisurely pace.
If, as a newcomer to walking, you have any problems with the pace of the walk please inform a member of staff at Walkaday on 0161 474 4919. As you become fitter and find the scope and pace of the walks to be well within your capabilities please ask the leader of the walks about details of local walking clubs.
If two hour walk including a break seems too much for you at the moment, see 'Related Pages' for information on Walking for Health in Stockport, a project to help people who have health difficulties begin to walk regularly as part of a group.
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Q.
How fit do I need to be?
A.
Each walk is paced to suit the needs of everyone in the group, so don’t worry about ‘keeping up’ (but if coming for the first time, please ensure that the walk is not a five to six mile walk).
A basic requirement is that you need to be able to walk at up to two miles an hour for two hours. A break will be incorporated into the walk.
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Q.
Are any of the walks suitable for people with mobility difficulties or disabilities?
A.
Yes. If you are a wheelchair user or feel that you may have difficulty negotiating stiles or uneven ground please let the Walkaday team know, via the Public Rights of Way Team - see the Related Contacts on the right, in advance so we can ensure that an appropriate route is planned.
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Q.
Are children welcome?
A.
Yes - but must be accompanied by a responsible adult if they are under 16.
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Q.
Do I need to wear any special clothes or footwear?
A.
No - but make sure your shoes are comfortable to walk in and waterproof in case of rain. Wear clothes appropriate to the weather. Remember to protect your skin when out in the sun.
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Q.
Will the walks continue if it’s raining?
A.
Yes - walks will only be cancelled in severe weather conditions, eg heavy rain and strong winds. Please ring if you are concerned.
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Q.
Can I come along on my own?
A.
Yes - this is an ideal opportunity if you prefer to walk in company.
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Q.
Can our organized group or club join the walks?
A.
Yes - groups or clubs are welcome, but please ring to book beforehand.
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Q.
Can I get to the meeting points by bus?
A.
Yes - all meeting points are near to bus stops, so venues are easily accessed by bus. For more details of bus routes and times, telephone GMPTE on 0161 228 7811.
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Q.
Who can I contact for more information?
A.
If you want any more information about the walks please contact a member of the Public Rights of Way Team using the 'Related Contacts' on the right.
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Q.
Can I help?
A.
Volunteers are leading an increasing number of walks. It’s easier than you think, so if you are interested in giving it a go, then just get in touch for a chat. We will run training for anyone who wants to be a walk leader.
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Q.
Want to do more?
A.
If you want to explore a little further than the walks offered in this leaflet, you can join a local walking club. A contact list is available on request.
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