The Big Spring Walk with Famous Support

Daniel and Dominic King, the top British Race Walker twins and Beijing Olympic hopefuls came together with actress Liz Smith in London’s Hyde Park to launch year two of the fundraising event The Big Spring Walk.

The aim of the event is to get people across the UK walking anytime over The Big Spring Walk weekend of 25th to 27th April 2008 to raise vital funds for disadvantaged older people.

The Big Spring Walk is open to people of all abilities and for those inspired to get involved. Daniel and Dominic - who are ranked number one and two respectively in the UK for their chosen sport - have compiled a list of ‘Top 10 Walking Tips’ to help people get the most out of walking. Here are some of them:

Wear the right clothes / footwear: Light layers are advisable as participants are likely to get warm whilst walking. It’s always worth taking waterproofs too, especially in April! Comfortable footwear that has preferably been worn before is essential to avoid blisters and calluses.

Adopt good walking posture: Walkers should always keep their head up and back straight. For those who want to walk faster, individuals should swing their arms and try and take longer strides.
Take enough water and food: It is important to keep hydrated, especially if walking long distances or exercising in hot weather as well as taking enough food. For a more leisurely approach, why not take a picnic and make a day of it!

Always warm-up: Stretching out before and after walking as part of a fitness regime is important to prevent injuries. In particular, pay attention to the calf muscles, hamstrings and quadriceps.
Set realistic goals: Participants can ensure that they reach their goals by setting achievable objectives, for example, walking a certain number of steps / distance each time and gradually increasing the amount.

REHACARE.de; Source: Help the Aged

- More about the Big Spring Walk at: www.helptheaged.org.uk/walk