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Tony’s walking story

“I’ve gone from barely moving to getting in at least 15,000 steps a day.”

Sometimes it takes a moment you didn’t plan for to reset everything.

Last year, after a 4-day stay in hospital, Tony decided to change his life through walking.

When visiting the pharmacy to get some medication, Tony’s blood pressure had been taken. It turned out to be dangerously high, and he was immediately admitted to hospital.

Once at the hospital, the staff wouldn’t let Tony walk for fear that he might have a heart attack or stroke. Tony had been overweight and experiencing daily headaches for a long time. He’d put his symptoms down to stress or dehydration.

The doctor asked how much Tony moved each day. The answer was not very much. He drove to work, sat at his desk all day, and then drove home again. He was told he had no choice, he needed to start moving more.

In the past, Tony had struggled to take this advice. Working long hours, he found it difficult to make the time. This time, it was different.

Today, Tony’s life is completely changed. He walks every day, has lost 20kg, and improved his health along the way.

“I used to be lucky to hit 2,000 steps a day. Now I’m averaging around 8 miles a day. If I have a busy day or know I am travelling, I will get up early to ensure I hit my movement goals.“

Tony takes on challenges to stay motivated to keep moving. This could be maintaining his 130+ days walking streak, or tackling hills across the UK.

“I never want to be where I was and now I have the walking streak going, it motivates me every day to not break it. The most surprising thing is how consistent I am with my personal goals now.”

Tony’s family also keep him motivated, gifting virtual walking experiences that keep Tony moving. The virtual challenges encourage Tony to explore his local area.

“At first, I didn’t think I needed the motivation. Turns out, having something to aim for makes all the difference.”

Tony’s next goal is simple – to keep going. He feels lucky to have had the chance to make these changes, with his stay in hospital being the wake-up call needed.