I will never again underestimate the power of walking

Thomas shares how his daily walks made him physically and mentally stronger.

Tom

At the start of lockdown I wasn’t walking; I used to think walking without going somewhere or reaching a goal needless.

However, over lockdown I could feel myself getting weaker and weaker. Mundane tasks which I used to be able to do easily became difficult for me because I would be in so much pain. There was a period when I would struggle to move anywhere without feeling pain in my legs which stopped me from living my life fully as I would often not be able to leave my house.

I promised myself that I would try to do something for the daily hour of exercise each day.

It was a big challenge for me but through perseverance and self-intervention I began walking again.

Over the months I could feel myself recovering physically and mentally - it was like medicine for me, and images in my head of being an old man stuck in his chair spurred me on to get out and walk.

Despite the initial struggle, it has greatly impacted my everyday life. Being able to walk further than I have in the recent years has been a milestone.

I have come so far since the start of lockdown, now that the restrictions have eased, I will be sure to keep up the daily walks and continue my fitness journey.
Walking has saved me. I will never again underestimate the power of walking.