Walking isn’t only good for our physical, social and mental health. It’s also good for our communities, the environment and the economy.
We support and inspire people in Scotland to walk and wheel more.
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Walking and wheeling help us improve our physical, mental and social health. They create more connected communities and reduce congestion and air pollution. For many of us, they also offer freedom, independence and affordable ways to get around.
“The Big Walking Break is the chance for everyone to step away from their desks, screens and busy lives and see how a 30 minute walk or wheel can transform their world.” Alana Genge, our Director of External Affairs and Engagement
Alana Genge, our Director of External Affairs and Engagement
Workplaces, schools, communities, and individuals are all planning to get involved.
Einir Jones, Principal Teacher Support for Learning at Greenfaulds High in Cumbernauld, says that the school is taking part so that both pupils and staff can experience the boost of a 30 minute walk or wheel.
Einir Jones, Principal Teacher Support for Learning at Greenfaulds High
NHS Ayrshire & Arran will also be getting involved.
“NHS Ayrshire & Arran staff have enjoyed participating in many different Step Count Challenges over the years. To celebrate 30 years of Walking Scotland, we want to encourage all staff to step outside and enjoy a walk on 30 September, taking time to be active, support their wellbeing, and enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors.” Tracy Scott, NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Staff Wellbeing Lead “Being active and spending time outdoors are simple yet powerful ways to support both our physical and mental wellbeing. That’s why the NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Healthy Places team want to encourage staff to take part in the Big Walking Break. Whether it’s walking to and from work, holding a walking meeting, or enjoying a stroll around the grounds with colleagues at lunchtime, every step counts. Taking time to get outside, move more, and connect with others can help us feel refreshed, re-energised, and ready for the rest of the day”.
“NHS Ayrshire & Arran staff have enjoyed participating in many different Step Count Challenges over the years. To celebrate 30 years of Walking Scotland, we want to encourage all staff to step outside and enjoy a walk on 30 September, taking time to be active, support their wellbeing, and enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors.”
Tracy Scott, NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Staff Wellbeing Lead
Emily Tweed, NHS Ayrshire & Arran Public Health Consultant
Heriot-Watt University have taken part in many Step Count Challenges. They’ll be joining in with the Big Walking Break to encourage colleagues to take a break that’s good for their mental, physical and social wellbeing. “With a remarkable 65,037,375 steps recorded in this year’s Step Count Challenge, Walking Scotland’s team walking challenge, our colleagues have shown what’s possible when we embrace movement. As Walking Scotland celebrate 30 years, we’re inspiring all colleagues to make the most of Heriot-Watt’s stunning campus and take a 30-minute walk or wheel for their wellbeing on Wednesday 30 September.” Helen Ovens, Reward & Wellbeing Partner at Heriot-Watt University Encourage your workplace, school or community group to get involved with our free resource packs. Don’t forget to share your photos on the day, tag Walking Scotland, and use #BigWalkingBreak. Together, let’s step out, connect with others, and experience the difference that walking and wheeling more can make.
Heriot-Watt University have taken part in many Step Count Challenges. They’ll be joining in with the Big Walking Break to encourage colleagues to take a break that’s good for their mental, physical and social wellbeing.
“With a remarkable 65,037,375 steps recorded in this year’s Step Count Challenge, Walking Scotland’s team walking challenge, our colleagues have shown what’s possible when we embrace movement. As Walking Scotland celebrate 30 years, we’re inspiring all colleagues to make the most of Heriot-Watt’s stunning campus and take a 30-minute walk or wheel for their wellbeing on Wednesday 30 September.”
Helen Ovens, Reward & Wellbeing Partner at Heriot-Watt University
Encourage your workplace, school or community group to get involved with our free resource packs.
Don’t forget to share your photos on the day, tag Walking Scotland, and use #BigWalkingBreak. Together, let’s step out, connect with others, and experience the difference that walking and wheeling more can make.
Published: 23 September 2026
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