When a Walk Changed Everything: Why Community Makes the Difference

A Personal Moment That Changed Everything

A couple of months back, I found myself unexpectedly stalling at the edge of the moorland, waiting for the others to arrive. I’d organised a mid-week walk—not in some motivational, chip-on-your-shoulder way—but simply because I needed to move, to breathe, to break up the haze of isolation...

That first coffee meet-up wasn’t meant to become anything more than a quick brew with a couple of guys I’d met through counselling. But there was something soothing about walking beside someone instead of sitting face to face. The tall grasses swayed, the light was soft, and stories just... streamed out without pressure.

By the second walk, we’d added two more guys. By the third? We were a proper little crew. That’s when MoMENtum began, grounded in purpose but powered by meaningful conversations and unexpected laughter.

Because isolation is real—for me, and for so many men I’ve supported throughout my career. From my early days working with men in construction to nearly 15 years as a counsellor supporting men through all kinds of life stress, I created this group to bridge that gap. To make it easier to show up—especially when you feel invisible—and to remind yourself that you don’t have to go it alone. I genuinely believe that walking together, especially when life feels heavy, moves more than just your legs.

Why This Matters Right Now

Recent UK research has revealed some fascinating and encouraging shifts:

• 7,000 steps a day (not the full 10,000) can reduce early mortality risk by nearly 50%, making healthy movement more accessible for busy lives.

• A coalition of 12 regional mayors has unveiled plans to develop 3,500 miles of safer walking, wheeling, and cycling routes across England starting this autumn—designed to embed activity into everyday life.

  (Source: Marie Claire UK and GOV.UK)

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That means walking isn’t just exercise—it’s a lifeline. And the UK is quietly backing that shift. MoMENtum isn’t just another group—it’s part of this tide. A way to build wellbeing through friendly, low-pressure connection.

3 Ways You Can Join In—They’re Easier Than You Think

Tip	Why It Works	How to Try It
1. Start small—focus on connection, not step count	Movement feels overwhelming; soft starts feel more doable	Join half a walk this week. Bring only yourself—trust the rest.
2. Let walking lead conversation	Side-by-side feels easy. It invites honesty without asking for it	Bring one question or curiosity (not stress) and just walk.
3. Come solo—or bring a mate	No performance. Just a seat at the trail	Take the first step—others nearly always follow.

Ready to Join Us?

If step goals have felt like pressure, here’s a gentler invitation: come walk, chat, and be you—whatever pace feels right. Whether it’s moorland next week or a coffee walk soon, you’ll find good company, real conversations, and reminder you matter.

Feel inspired to join us for our next event?That chair, that trail, that fresh air moment is waiting for you.— Alan R. Stokes, Director of MoMENtumConnection. Action. Belonging

About the Author

Alan R. Stokes is a qualified counsellor who’s spent 15 years supporting men through life’s ups and downs. His journey from working in construction to founding MoMENtum comes from a simple, heartfelt belief: we heal through connection.