Step into May

4 May 2016 11:47 AM

National Walking Month launches this week with Londoners being encouraged to make walking part of their daily routine.

The campaign, organised by national charity Living Streets, highlights the benefits of walking and promotes the idea that 20 minutes each day can have a significant impact on health and wellbeing.

Research carried out by the charity shows that more than half of Londoners are worried about not doing enough exercise.

Walking is a simple remedy. Just a small change like walking part of your journey to work, taking the children to school on foot or strolling to the local shops can make a big difference.

In fact, walking just one mile can burn up to 100 calories, and people who are more active reduce their risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and strokes. It also helps to lower stress levels and improve sleep.

Walking is the main way Londoners stay active and half of all trips on foot in the capital are made as part of a public transport journey. In addition, there are more than 100 connections on the Tube that are easier or quicker to walk - so throughout May, try skipping a stop or walking to your next connection.

A 20-minute stroll could open up a world of hidden gems that the capital has to offer. To help you explore the city, our Legible London offers walkers handy maps. They provide useful information about the local area, with realistic times it might take you to walk to places within a five and 15-minute range.