Walking it off after Christmas and new year – what I have learned about where to look and some decent places to go

It certainly helped me to find a way to lose more than six stone, alongside adopting a healthier eating regime.

I think we can all agree that many people spend far too much time sat down, be it in the home, at work or in the car.

And if you are not quite ready to step on the accelerator and go running, simply putting one foot in front of the other is a decent way to start.

And here in Shropshire and the borders we have some fabulous open spaces to explore. 

By far the best way of getting going is to find a walking group and joining in. But don't forget to get the right clothing and footwear. I've known people who turn up for muddy walks wearing trainers, which is less than ideal!

But you will need to research the ethos of the group before joining. Some might expect a level of activity that you are not up to yet.

Before moving to Shropshire I was very much aware of one or two groups that would leave you behind if you could not keep up.

Being stuck in the middle of an area you don't know is not the best introduction to group walking.

Luckily I found one where they didn't leave anyone behind.