Walking for Charity: How One Step at a Time Can Transform Your Health and Make a Difference

When we think about getting fit, it’s easy to imagine intense gym workouts, running marathons, or lifting heavy weights. But for me, and many others, one of the most powerful ways to get fit and make a difference is by taking part in charity walks. Walking is something most of us can do, no matter our fitness level, and when you combine it with a meaningful cause, it becomes not just a personal journey but a way to contribute to something greater than yourself.

As a former survivor of domestic abuse, I’ve experienced my fair share of challenges, both physical and emotional. However, through walking for charity, I’ve found healing, strength, and a new sense of purpose. Today, I want to share my personal story of how charity walks have helped me get fit, raise funds for vital causes, and ignite a passion for walking that I never imagined would transform my life.

The Beginning: Struggling with the 62 Miles for Refuge Walking Challenge

The first time I signed up for the 62 Miles for Refuge Walking Challenge, I was feeling unsure of myself. I was a domestic abuse survivor, and despite escaping form that marriage over 20 years ago - I was still working through the trauma, and fitness wasn’t something that came easily. I remember feeling overwhelmed by the challenge—62 miles was a big goal, and I could barely manage the daily two-mile target when I first started. I had no idea how I’d make it to the end of the challenge, but the cause was important to me, and that kept me going.

In those early days, the thought of walking more than a few miles at a time felt daunting. My legs ached, and I often felt like giving up. But the beauty of this challenge was that it was all about pacing myself. Each day I committed to walking the two-mile target, and even though it felt hard at first, I could feel myself improving. Slowly, I began to notice that my legs weren’t as tired, my breathing wasn’t as labored, and my body was adjusting to the routine.

Building Up Slowly: From Two Miles to 7K

Over time, I started to realize that walking wasn’t just about physical fitness—it was an emotional and mental journey as well. The more I walked, the more I started to feel stronger, not just in my body, but in my spirit. I gradually started increasing my distance, building up my stamina one step at a time. Soon, walking 7K or 8K didn’t feel like such a monumental task. What once seemed impossible was now part of my routine.

The beauty of walking is that it’s a low-impact exercise, which makes it accessible to almost anyone. I didn’t have to run or push my body to extremes; instead, I could enjoy the process, at my own pace, while working toward my goal. Each day, I could see my progress, which was incredibly motivating. It also gave me time to clear my head and focus on my healing process as I moved forward in my life.

A New Passion for Fitness and Walking

As I completed the 62 Miles for Refuge challenge, something clicked in me. What had started as a necessary task for a good cause had turned into a personal passion for walking and fitness. The more I walked, the more I wanted to challenge myself and see how far I could go - and discover more of the beautiful nature and amazing history that was on my Essex doorstep. By the end of the challenge, I had walked my first 15K in London. That was a personal best, and it felt like a huge accomplishment. I realized that I had not only pushed my physical limits but had also gained a new appreciation for my body and what it was capable of. The miles I walked were no longer just a physical challenge—they were a testament to my resilience and my journey toward healing.

Walking for Other Causes: The Big Step Forward for Pancreatic Cancer UK

As I grew more confident in my walking abilities, I found new ways to put my passion for fitness to good use. I signed up for other charity walks, including The Big Step Forward for Pancreatic Cancer UK. Walking for charity has allowed me to contribute to causes that are close to my heart while continuing to push my physical limits.

Each walk, whether it’s for Refuge, Pancreatic Cancer research, or another good cause, reinforces the idea that movement and purpose can work hand in hand. Walking for charity isn’t just about getting fit—it’s about supporting those in need and knowing that every step you take contributes to a bigger picture.

Why Walking for Charity Works: Physical and Emotional Benefits

Taking part in charity walks like 62 Miles for Refuge has not only helped me get fitter, but it has also given me a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Here are just a few reasons why walking for charity is so powerful:

1. Accessible Fitness for All:

Walking is a low-impact activity that nearly anyone can do. Whether you're starting with just a mile or two, you can gradually build up your distance and stamina over time. It’s a great option for people who may not be able to commit to more intense forms of exercise.

2. Mental Clarity and Emotional Healing:

Walking gives you time to think, reflect, and clear your mind. For survivors of trauma, it can provide a sense of peace and mindfulness that’s so crucial for emotional healing. As I walked, I found the time to process my own healing journey while contributing to important causes.

3. A Sense of Purpose:

Walking for charity gives you a deeper sense of purpose. Knowing that your efforts are going toward a cause you care about makes every mile feel meaningful. Whether it’s raising funds for domestic abuse shelters, cancer research, or refugee support, walking becomes more than just an exercise—it’s a way to give back and make a difference.

4. Community and Support:

Many charity walks are done in groups, either physically or virtually, which creates a sense of community and camaraderie. Knowing that you’re walking alongside others who are also supporting the same cause can be incredibly motivating. Posting your progress online on a fundraising page also makes you more accountable.

The Power of One Step at a Time

Looking back on my journey—from struggling with those first two miles to walking 15K around London—I can’t help but feel proud. It wasn’t just about completing a walking challenge; it was about transforming my life, both physically and emotionally. Walking gave me the opportunity to heal, grow stronger, and do something good for others at the same time.

If you’re looking for a way to get fit, raise funds for a cause you care about, and find a sense of purpose, I can’t recommend charity walks enough. Whether you’re walking to support survivors of domestic abuse, raise awareness for cancer, or help refugees, every step you take makes a difference. And, like me, you might find that the act of walking—one step at a time—helps you walk toward a healthier, more fulfilled version of yourself.