National Walking Month saw over 250 colleagues embrace the challenge of increasing their activity levels through the return of our popular Step Count Challenge. Among those involved was Learning and Development Assistant, Beth Usher, whose journey that started with her L&D colleagues in one of two “Legs Miserable” teams has helped lead to a remarkable personal transformation.
Beth initially admits she was a complete novice when it came to exercise, explaining: “I took part in the 10,000 steps league during May alongside some of my colleagues, but bear in mind that before the start I did no exercise. I thought it was 10,000 steps per week!
“Long story short, I did the first walk, smashed the target step count and have been walking every day for the last three months now. I’ll get out and walk between 6 to 9 miles per day, and it’s safe to say it’s helped me wonders.”
For Beth, the benefits have been particularly significant in helping manage long-standing health concerns. Having experienced early menopause at 36, Beth had struggled with both physical and mental health challenges, including difficulty losing weight, high blood pressure and anxiety.
Consistent walking has been a game-changer. “I am buzzing! I have been size 14-16 for some years now, I’ve tried every diet fad going – even cabbage soup for goodness sake!
“But last week I finally got into a size 12 and it was baggy – yes, baggy! I was crying. Just a little walk, nothing strenuous daily, has helped not only with my weight, but that fresh air has also helped my mental health.”
Dropping those dress sizes is a testament to the impact of Beth’s new routine, and it is one which has directly contributed to improvements in her physical health – including her blood pressure.
Beyond the personal gains, Beth’s dedication has also had a ripple effect. “My Facebook friends have been following this journey, and I feel great to have inspired many of them to start walking too.
Beth’s story truly highlights how incorporating regular physical activity, even something as simple as daily walking, can lead to significant improvements in both physical and mental wellbeing. It’s a fantastic example of how small, consistent steps can lead to monumental changes in overall health and happiness – and an amazing example of how getting started with support available through Balance initiatives or our support offer can help you make positive changes.
We love hearing and sharing your success stories – and Beth’s follows on from the astonishing totals put on by league-winners Mac’s Marchers in tribute to a colleague who couldn’t take part. To read that story and how the walking challenge inspired more, just click here.
Got an idea or any thoughts on our wellbeing offer? Responses are currently open for our 2025 Health Needs Assessment – giving you the chance to directly inform our next staff wellbeing strategy. Just take 10 minutes to complete our survey and make sure your voice is heard!
