When it comes to the winter months, especially those after Christmas, it can be very tempting to hunker down and stay inside until spring time. However, getting out in nature can be hugely beneficial not just for ourselves but also for the planet - and it’s a popular resolution for the new year too.
We at 100Green asked UK adults just how much they head out during the colder months - and put together our tips to get outside - no matter what weather we’re facing - to pair with our January walking challenge.
A hibernating nation
Our survey of 1,000 Brits found that during the winter, on average, UK adults spend 2 hours and 52 minutes outside each week - that’s almost one third (31%) less than in the summer months (4 hours and 9 minutes)!
And of course, this happens not only due to the colder weather, but also because of the darker days, as during January, Brits enjoy just 8 hours of daylight each day.
The British winter impacts our willingness to get outside so much so that in the summertime, a third (32%) spend between 2 and a half and 5 hours out of the house. In fact, a further third (30%) of us spend over 5 hours a week outside during the summer - in the winter this figure drops to 18% for both timings.
When looking at time spent outside in the winter, this figure goes down to an average of 2 hours and 40 minutes per week when looking at women, while men spend over 3 hours outside weekly in the winter.
During these colder months, 70% of women spend under 2 and a half hours out of their house each week (versus 60% of men).
During the winter almost one in six (14%) say they go outside for less than 30 minutes every week - equating to 9.4 million Brits, effectively, going into hibernation until spring.
What are the benefits of walking?
It can feel daunting trying to face the wrath of British weather. From wind to rain, you never quite know what to expect - but there are plenty of benefits of walking and getting outside.
With amazing gains from walking for your health, heading outside regularly can improve your blood pressure and heart health, ease joint pain and boost your immune system’s functioning.
You can even take up walking for mental health improvements, as getting outside for even 30 minutes a day can boost your mood, energy and reduce stress. Taking scenic routes in nature can help us appreciate the beauty of our planet, and will also increase our creativity and focus.
How to get outside during the winter
As we can see, there are plenty of benefits to walking trails and getting into nature in general, however, getting into a habit proves to be a tough challenge, especially in the cold and dark. So, how can we start to get outside regularly when some of us are spending as little as 30 minutes outside each week?
See below for our tips to start walking in the winter months:
1. Start small - make walking part of your daily routine such as walking to work or parking further away from your destination.
2. Listen to music or a podcast if you feel able to do so in your surroundings, this can help you keep pace and will help you pass the time.
3. Add variety into your walks - walking the same route every day will be boring for anyone! So be sure to switch trails regularly.
4. Look at your surroundings, you can even create a bingo card or check list of elements to look out for on your walk such as certain trees, dogs, or even green energy sources!
5. Start a walking challenge or join a walking group to keep up your motivation throughout the month.
6. If on a woodland, stick to trails that are designated for people - don’t stray away from paths
7. Keep to well-lit areas if possible.
8. If you’re walking during darker hours - which are common in winter - wearing a reflective vest or light can help cars spot you.
9. Wear the proper shoes that will support your feet.
10. Make sure you stay hydrated, as you would when undertaking any exercise.
100Green’s walking challenge
If you’re looking for a walking challenge - 100Green have partnered with The Outdoor Guide (TOG) to help you find the best walks around the UK and learn a little bit more about how green energy is generated in the meantime.
We’re challenging people to get outside for one walk, one hour, once a week - helping you end any winter hibernation!
If you’re thinking, where are some “green, scenic walks near me?”, head to the TOG website to browse trails.