Walking For Better Health
Over many decades of a high-stress office job, Ian Jones had become unfit, overweight and was taking prescribed pills for high blood pressure and cholesterol. But all that changed in 2013, when he took early retirement and decided he would “try walking”.
Ian (61), of Livingston, said, “When I retired I had no idea what I would do with my time. I didn’t have a hobby and so I went for a few walks close to my home.
“I discovered there were many paths to explore – and before I knew it I could walk up to 20 miles in one go.”
Ian’s wife suggested he meet up with the Livingston Ramblers but he took some persuading. “I thought the Ramblers only walked along the seafront and did little hills. I’ve discovered they do more strenuous ones, too.
“Now I’ve hiked 22 Munros, some alone, but most with the Ramblers. All of my walks are new adventures.”
Ian, who has also run five half-marathons, is delighted by his healthier lifestyle. “I’m back to a decent weight and I’ve come off all my pills.
“There are so many great places to walk in on our doorstep in Scotland. Being out in the hills is always brilliant and it’s so good for my well-being.”