… is that which you wish you could have given to yourself. Here’s what some of last year’s Walk1200km participants wish they’d known before starting.

Aim to walk every day if you can. If you are going to make first thing in the morning your walking time, check the forecast in the evening and set out the appropriate walking gear for the next day.”

– Jeremy Keane (featured)

Set your own pace. It is your own challenge.”
– Shirley Keen

Use the progress tracker. If there’s an empty space on it, it makes me feel like I better get out there.”
– Nick Ryan

Turns out I’m water resistant, and the rain won’t shrink me – that excuse won’t work any more. Nor will the early darkness in the winter; a head torch is a good tool to see and be seen.”
– Amanda Collins

One kilometre really isn’t very far. Zipping around the block after dinner a few times a week can add a lot to your weekly total.”
– Gael Price

City and town walks count, too – you don’t always have to go on big tramping trips.”
– Alison Silcock

For those juggling multiple priorities, plan longer walks on the weekend or on your days off. During the working week, incorporate intentional short walks into each day.”
– Kim Vardon

Having a doggie that loves walkies and routine really helps with the motivation.”
– Allie Dunn

How addictive it becomes!”
– Ann Wilde

How epic the Facebook group is! Awesome new places to go, incredible support, aroha, lots of laughs and fun shared.
– PJ Arthur