We asked those who’ve taken on the challenge for the first time this year if they’ve managed to achieve what they set out to do…
‘#walk1000miles has completely changed my outlook’
Last year 37-year-old Becky Brooks was twice told she’d probably never walk again. Now she’s off exploring every day.
‘Last year I had three months of excruciating pain in my lower back and hip down to my right foot. A chiropractor was treating me for sciatica, but each visit left me in even more pain, and I had to pull over several times on my drive back to work because I felt my leg going completely numb, and the pain in my hip was off the scale.
One morning I couldn't feel anything from the waist down. I called 999 and was told I had Cauda Equina Syndrome, and needed an emergency operation on my spinal cord and discs.
Afterwards the surgeon said there was so much damage in my spine they didn't know if the procedure had worked, or if I’d ever get full use of my legs again. But five days later I had an overwhelming urge to walk… so I did. I started recovery at home, but five weeks later a very familiar pain came back. I needed more surgery, and that's when I cried for the first time. An amazing nurse just held me super tight and let it pour out of me.
I discovered #walk1000miles through a friend, and dived straight in. I can honestly say it has completely changed my outlook on my future. At first I could only manage one-mile walks, but although I found it painful I wasn’t about to quit, and before I knew it I was smashing out anything three miles a day no problem. Six months post-op I walked up Snowdon!
Now I walk anywhere and everywhere. Walking is my escape to great health and treasured memories. I use it to clear my mind, reflect and focus to move forward. I’ve achieved a lot more than I ever imagined and I’m now back to playing regular volleyball, skiing, paddleboarding, rollerblading and indoor climbing. I might have several plates in my spine but I'm fighting fit and back to living a normal life. I can't really put into words just how much #walk1000miles means to me. Everyone should get out more without a plan and just walk to happiness. It works for me.’
‘Physically and mentally better’
Angie Barber wanted to get fitter after a long-term injury
‘I joined #walk1000miles because I was slowly recovering from severe Achilles tendinopathy and couldn’t do the long walks I used to. I hoped it would improve my fitness and help the stress I’d been experiencing. It’s been wonderful. Unlike other challenges where you train for the ‘big day’, this feels like training for a healthier life. I’m exceeding my expectations, and feel physically and mentally better. The added bonus is that I’ve discovered local ‘off the beaten track’ pathways which are beautiful and away from all the tourist honeypots. Now I hope to keep walking into my 70s and beyond.’
‘Lost weight and no longer need diabetes medication’
Just a few months of walking made a huge difference to 75-year-old Peter Jackson and his diabetes.
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at the end of February, and it spurred me on to walk every day wherever I am and whatever the weather. I fully expected to take 12 months to reach my 1000-mile goal, but despite the diabetes and one or two other health issues I passed this target on 2nd August. I've achieved my weight loss target and recently had my first diabetic review – where I was told I won't now need medication. I'm very pleased, to say the least!’
‘So glad I discovered this’
Pip Ala’s first year brought unexpected challenge and unimagined support.
‘I love walking/mountains and get out most weekends but I totally underestimated how much commitment this would take, it’s been an eye opener and much needed. Wasn't sure I'd make it after being rushed into hospital in May with heart problems. But I did! The genuine love and support amongst everyone in the #walk1000miles community has been inspiring and kept me going.’
‘Walking controls my depression’
Sam Kruger joined #walk1000miles to improve her physical health – but found a huge unexpected benefit
‘I started #walk1000miles to get fitter and to lose weight. It’s been an unexpected bonus how much the challenge really benefits my mental health. I live with depression and I’ve found getting up and walking three miles in the country helps me stay positive for the whole day. I'm about to start the final year of my Open University degree, and starting my day walking clears my head, controls the depression and puts oxygen into my brain so I can study. A win win win!’
‘Getting active has been great for me’
When Jan Risby stopped commuting she stopped exercising… until she took on #walk1000miles
‘Pre-Covid, I commuted to London five days a week – cycling to the station then walking to work from Victoria. During Covid, I worked from home and realised I’d spend most of my time sitting. I joined #walk1000miles, initially to walk 500 miles as a way of making me more active. But I’m now on target for 1000 miles, and getting active has been great for me. It makes every mile count – the challenge makes me walk when in the past I might have driven. And the Facebook group is super – always so encouraging!’
‘The challenge has given me a love of walking’
Sue Jackson wanted to lose weight and get fit. But the challenge has given her so much more
‘I badly sprained my ankle in April last year and put a lot of weight on, so I needed to do something to improve my fitness and get outdoors. I thought the 1000-mile goal would give me something to aim for. I wanted it to help me lose weight and get fitter – and I’ve achieved both! I’ve enjoyed it – it’s given me a love of walking and getting out in the country, and I think the community is lovely – people say social media is an awful place, but my timeline is full of happy people and lovely pictures.’
