Hazel: Walking means the world

Having grown up with various health problems, Hazel could never find the right form of exercise for her. When she started to walk regularly, she noticed the rapid health benefits.

Hazel, Humans of the Walk

Increasing her fitness through walking with a Health Walk, Hazel and her husband now walk to the shop instead of taking the car, or use their free bus passes to get to new walking spots in an effort to slow down the damage happening to the environment.


Having been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis and being not able to walk it has been brought home, just how much walking means to me.

I am normally out every day. I know so much about my area now and how to get around it. I’m much more comfortable to go on walks and went daily throughout Covid lockdowns. It’s such a good way of keeping you sane when you’re locked in the house!

My husband and I now walk to the shop instead of taking the car, or use our free bus passes to get to new walking spots in an effort to slow down the damage happening to the environment.

I’ve made such good friends on Health Walks. Now that I’ve been going for years, it’s so nice to see new people make similar friendships like the ones I have made.

It’s a great laugh and brilliant company and the volunteers are so inspiring.

Paths for All is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. It’s as simple as that.

Hazel has been walking with her local Health Walk group for seven years, has made friends for life and has seen her physical fitness improve. Hazel uses the walks to enjoy nature and notice the seasons changing around the Kirkintilloch area.

Hazel's story is part of our Humans of the Walk campaign during COP26. Check out the full campaign gallery here.