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National Walking Month

Step into National Walking Month with us and discover the benefits of this simple yet effective form of exercise for your mind, body, and soul!

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited Kingdom

CATEGORYHealth

SUBCATEGORYFitness

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to lace up your sneakers and hit the streets because May 1 marks the start of National Walking Month! This month-long celebration encourages people to incorporate more walking into their daily routine for both physical and mental health benefits. Did you know that walking has been a popular mode of transportation since ancient times? It's also a great way to explore your surroundings, save money on gas, and reduce your carbon footprint. So let's take this opportunity to embrace a healthier lifestyle and enjoy all the perks that come with it!

TIMELINE

National Walking Month Timeline

Origination of Walking as a Mode of Transport

Walking was the main form of transportation in ancient civilizations, connecting rural and urban communities in Mesopotamia and Egypt.

Walking Becomes Leisurely Activity

In the 19th century, walking became a popular leisure activity, often referred to as "pedestrianism," and was considered a spectator sport in England and America.

First Man to Reach Mount Everest Summit

Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest on foot, emphasising the importance and respect for walking challenges.

Walking for Health Benefits

The medical community began recommending walking as part of a healthy lifestyle routine in the 1970s, for both physical and mental health benefits.

Inauguration of National Walking Month

The initiative to declare May as National Walking Month was established by the UK charity Living Streets in 2014, to encourage people to walk more.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Walking Month

Take a walking tour

Explore your city or a nearby town by taking a guided walking tour. Not only will you get some exercise, but you'll also learn about the history and culture of the area.

Go on a nature hike

Find a nearby hiking trail and take a leisurely walk through nature. You'll get some fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery while getting in some exercise.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a charity walk

Join a charity walk or fun run to support a cause you care about. It's a great way to give back while also staying active.

CREATE

Create a walking scavenger hunt

Gather some friends and create a walking scavenger hunt around your neighborhood or a local park. It's a fun and interactive way to get some exercise while exploring your surroundings.

HOST

Host a walking challenge

Challenge your friends, family, or coworkers to see who can walk the most steps in a month. Offer a prize for the winner to make it even more exciting and motivating.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Walking Month

It's a great way to connect with nature

National Walking Month promotes not only physical health, but also mental well-being. Taking walks outside allows for time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. It's a wonderful opportunity to appreciate your surroundings, clear your mind and reduce stress.

Walking is great exercise

Walking is a low-impact exercise that has numerous health benefits, such as improving cardiovascular health, reducing stress and boosting overall mood. National Walking Month encourages people to prioritize their physical health by taking daily walks, which can greatly improve overall wellness.

It can be done anywhere

One of the best things about walking is that it can be done almost anywhere - in your neighborhood, at the park, or even on a treadmill. This allows for flexibility and makes it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Plus, you can experience different environments while getting in some exercise!

Related holidays

WED

Apr 2026

Health

National Walking Day

Step up for health on National Walking Day! Lace up those shoes and enjoy the great outdoors - every step counts toward a healthier lifestyle.

Move More Month

Get ready to move and groove all month long with Move More Month! Join us in taking small steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

Walk to Work Day

Kick-start your day with energy on Walk to Work Day! Ditch the bus, save the environment, and boost your health one step at a time.

National Fitness Day

Get moving on National Fitness Day! Join the challenge and set your fitness goals to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

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