A walking charity is encouraging Scots to make walking part of their New Year’s resolutions.

The 2023 National Survey of Attitudes to Walking and Wheeling in Scotland, which was commissioned by Paths for All – found that 85 per cent of adults walk several times per week or daily, and 59 per cent walk for leisure for exercise.

While 84 per cent said they enjoy walking because it is good for their health, just under a quarter (24 per cent) had heard or seen messages on the health benefits of walking.  

Fiona Bull, head of physical activity at the World Health Organisation, presented evidence at a lecture held by Paths for All, about how walking can save lives.

Dr Bull said: “Walking more regularly can contribute to saving lives and brings so many health benefits; but too often, walking is not being promoted enough. 

"The work Paths for All has been doing to get more people active is incredible, bringing communities together and ensuring all have access to walking groups, as well as upgrading infrastructure, and educating the public.  

It was also highlighted by Dr Bull that physical inactivity accounts for between 3.2 and 5.1 million deaths a year.

Louise Bursle, communications and marketing manager at Paths for All, said: “As we enter a new year, many people will be setting resolutions to be more active, but you don’t need to make big commitments to see the benefits. Just adding a short walk to your daily routine will have an impact.” 

A few walks that people in Central Fife can do include Cullaloe Hills, Hill of Beath, and the Den Burn and Sunnyside Plantation Circular.

READ MORE: Fife councillor writes to Scottish minister over school dinner concerns

Cullaloe Hills is a circular 4.3km route near Cowdenbeath railway station. The trail takes roughly 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete. This trail is ideal for walking, hiking, and running.

Hill of Beath is another walk option for people in the area. This walk is 3.5km long and is considered an easy route. While the walk up Hill of Beath is a short one, it can be combined with a walk around Dalbeath Marshes Nature Reserve.

Finally, the Den Burn and Sunnyside Plantation Circular is a 7.7km circular trail near Lochgelly and is considered a moderately challenging route. The trail has a mixture of town and green space as you walk in the woods and roads around Cardenden.