Begin on 7th April and aim for approximately 7,000 steps daily to complete the challenge by 18th April.

This shorter journey is ideal for those new to walking challenges or with time constraints.

Before you begin, consider these practical tips:

1. Maintain Good Form: Keep your head up, shoulders relaxed, and core engaged for optimal posture and efficiency. See the section below on proper walking form for more details.

2. Warm-up Properly: Incorporate light stretches and basic bodyweight exercises to prepare your body for the walk. If you need to learn 10 benefits of stretching check it out here.

3. Invest in supportive Footwear: Proper footwear is essential for comfort, preventing injuries, and maximising your enjoyment.

4. Use Your Walks for Reflection: Use your walks to pray, express gratitude, meditate on Scripture, and deepen your connection with God.

Jesus rarely walked alone; He journeyed with His disciples and followers. Walking in community strengthens our faith, mirroring the fellowship experienced by those who journeyed with Him. If you are looking to learn more about walking and longevity read 99 Years Young: Mr. Luther Walters' Secrets to a Life Well-Lived.

We encourage you to walk with family, friends, or your church group. Share your progress and reflections online using #WalkLikeJesusChallenge. Inspire others to join the challenge, creating a vibrant community of faith and fitness.

Proper walking technique is crucial for maximising benefits and minimising injury risk. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Posture: Stand tall with your head up, shoulders relaxed, and core engaged. Avoid hunching or slouching.

2. Foot Placement: Begin by rolling your foot from heel to toe. Avoid striking the ground forcefully with your heel.

3. Stride Length: Choose a stride that feels natural and comfortable; avoid over-striding or taking excessively short steps.

4. Arm Swing: Allow your arms to swing naturally at your sides, bent at roughly a 90-degree angle. This helps maintain balance and propel you forward.

5. Breathing: Breathe deeply and rhythmically throughout your walk.

Walking engages multiple muscle groups throughout your body:

• Legs: Quadriceps (front of thighs), hamstrings (back of thighs), calves (back of lower legs), and glutes (buttocks) are primary movers.

• Core: Abdominal and back muscles stabilise your body and maintain posture.

• Upper Body: While less intensely involved, arm and shoulder muscles aid in balance and momentum.

To gradually increase the intensity and duration of your walks, try these progressions:

1. Increase Duration: Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the time spent walking each day or week.

2. Increase Distance: Once comfortable with the duration, gradually increase the distance of your walks.

3. Increase Intensity: Incorporate intervals of faster walking or inclines to challenge your cardiovascular system.

4. Add Variety: Explore different terrains, such as trails or hills, to challenge your body in new ways.

5. Incorporate Strength Training: Supplement your walking routine with strength training exercises to build overall fitness.

It’s important to listen to your body as you increase the intensity or duration. Make adjustments as needed and rest if you feel any discomfort.​

Ready to Walk Like Jesus? Take your first step today! Choose your distance, lace up your shoes, and embark on this transformative journey. Share your experience (using #WalkLikeJesusChallenge on social media), encourage others to walk alongside you, and inspire a community of faith and fitness.

For guidance on integrating faith-based health and fitness into your life, connect with Olivia Williams, founder of ScriptFit, at www.scriptfit.com. She's a qualified health and fitness coach, personal trainer, and speaker specialising in faith-centered wellness.

Are you ready to step out in faith and walk like Jesus? Begin today—take that first step, and invite others to join you in this transformative journey. Sign up for the Walk Like Jesus Challenge today!