Walking isn’t just a way to get from A to B anymore - it’s becoming the movement of the moment. On the one side of the health and fitness world, you have Hyrox and ultra marathons, but on the other, there’s a fresh appreciation for moving at a slower, more intentional pace. Whether it’s the rise of social walking clubs, the lasting influence of the ‘Hot Girl Walk trend’ or simply the joy of stepping away from screens, walking and hiking is fast becoming the go-to way to reset, reconnect, and recharge.
With spring on the horizon, bringing longer days and lighter evenings, now is the perfect time to lace up your trainers and head outdoors. But what’s driving this walking revival, and why should you be part of it?
1. Walking is Wellness Without Competition
For years, fitness culture has been all about intensity—HIIT classes, marathons, and pushing your limits. But the pendulum is swinging back. Wellness today is less about burnout and more about balance, and walking fits that shift perfectly. It’s movement without the pressure, exercise without the exhaustion, and a way to feel good without needing a fitness tracker to prove it.
It’s also a built-in digital detox (which we’re obviously all for). A morning walk with your favourite podcast, an evening stroll without notifications buzzing in your pocket—walking encourages presence. And in a world where we’re constantly plugged in, that’s a pretty big deal.
2. The Rise of Walking Clubs & Social Steps
Walking is no longer a solo activity—it’s a social one. Ambling groups are no longer only for the retired. The explosion of walking groups like ‘Granola Girlies’, proves that walking is as much about connection as it is about movement. People are swapping Friday night drinks for weekend walks, meeting like-minded people while getting their steps in.
Unlike high-energy social settings that can feel intimidating, walking groups create an easy way to meet people, bond over shared experiences, and have real conversations without the pressure of eye contact or forced small talk. Many people find it easier to talk openly when walking side-by-side, which removes the intensity of talking in an “interview” environment.
There’s something effortless about walking as a social activity. It’s low pressure, easy to join, and doesn’t require special skills or gear—just a good pair of trainers and a willingness to put one foot in front of the other.
Walking for just 120 minutes a week in nature can reduce your cortisol levels by up to 21%
3. The Benefits of Walking and Hiking
Walking comes with a whole host of benefits for your physical and mental well-being.
- Boosts Mental Health – Research shows that walking, especially in nature, reduces stress and anxiety and lowers cortisol levels. A simple 20-minute walk can do wonders for your mood.
- Sparks Creativity and Original Thought - There’s no AI in the fields. Walking in nature is a natural boost to creativity and original thought.
- Improves Sleep and Energy Levels – Exposure to natural light and fresh air helps regulate sleep patterns and provides a natural energy boost.
- Encourages Mindfulness – Whether you’re hiking in the hills or strolling through the city, walking naturally slows you down and helps you take in your surroundings, fostering a greater sense of presence.
- Supports Heart Health – Regular walking helps lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. An Intentional Break From Screens
In an era where we check our phones hundreds of times a day, walking offers a simple but powerful way to disconnect. A walk or hike, whether through a city park or deep in the countryside, is an activity that makes digital detoxing easy. Without the constant pull of social media or emails, it becomes easier to focus on thoughts, surroundings, and even real-life conversations.
Hiking takes this a step further. Many remote trails have limited signal, forcing you to put your phone away and immerse yourself in nature. The result? Better focus, reduced stress, and a deeper sense of clarity. Whether it's a daily 30-minute stroll or a weekend hike, regular walking can serve as a reset button for your digital habits.
5. Spring is the Perfect Time to Start
With the arrival of spring, there’s no better time to start walking. Milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and nature slowly coming back to life make it the perfect season to get outdoors. Whether it’s a countryside hike, a city route with a coffee stop, or a simple loop around your local park, walking is an easy way to shake off winter and step into a slower, more intentional rhythm.
So, if you’ve been looking for a reason to move more, feel better, and maybe even meet new people along the way—this is your sign. Walking is more than just a way to get from A to B. It’s a movement, a mindset, and the easiest way to bring more presence into your life.
See you on the trail?
Fancy getting your walking boots on in the depths of nature? Book a nature escape at Unplugged Digital Detox Cabin now.
