Walk & Talk Week brings together two things that are incredibly important; mental and physical wellbeing.
The week is a partnership between us and Samaritans and encourages people to make time for themselves, get moving and get talking about how they’re feeling.
With the weather improving and more daylight for us to enjoy, it gives us the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends and ask them ‘would you be up for a walk and talk?’. With our busy lives, we can be guilty of not checking in with people we care about as often as we’d like to – we want that to change.
So, why walking? As well as being one of the most accessible ways to be active, it’s also the nation’s favourite! Our recent survey found that people named walking as the most beneficial exercise for their mental wellbeing. So, going for a walk with a friend gives you the chance to boost your mood and spend some much-needed time to catch up and check in.
What can you expect to see in our gyms?
During Walk & Talk Week, you’re bound to see plenty of fundraising and fun activities. After all, the week is all about fundraising and raising awareness for the amazing work that Samaritans do in answering calls for help.
This is our second Walk & Talk Week and we saw some amazing challenges last year, including:
- Treadmill challenge covering the distance between AF Truro and AF Inverness (688 miles!)
- Organised member Walk & Talks
- Team members walking over 20 miles a day
- Raffles including prizes of a workout session with the gym owner!
- … and much more!
Many of our gyms will also be running special donation initiatives throughout the week, including donating £5 to Samaritans for every new joiner or a 7-day pass for a £5 donation*
How can I reach Samaritans?
If you’re going through a difficult time, Samaritans are always here to listen, at any time, day or night. You can call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org and a volunteer will email you back.
How can I donate?
If you’d like to donate to Samaritans and our Walk & Talk Week, visit our JustGiving page here or text ANYTIME to 70480. A donation of £5 can directly fund a call for help from someone struggling to cope.
*Available at participating gyms only.