YOUR SUMMER WALKING GUIDE

Collect all five Rachel-certified walking badges by completing each walk!!

by Rachel Loring

We all remember when the hot girl walk took off, forever altering our perceptions on what a walk can truly be, both mentally and physically. Though, in my opinion, the term and concept is a little…corny and played out. It’s too vague, too formless, too girlboss-millenial core. As a self-proclaimed walking connoisseur, let me take you through some of my tried and true walks that are guaranteed to brighten your summer and get your steps in!

The Incline Walk

This is the classic Rachel walk, of which I have coined my “walkies”. It’s the 12-3-30, which is a 12 incline at a 3 speed for 30 minutes. This walk will require a treadmill, some good shoes, and a shit ton of endurance because, in my opinion, it’s HARD. But incline walks are supposedly great for you and you get a nice sweat without running (cue dread).

Certified Walking Tip: If you’re like me a few months ago (unable to do this without feeling like puking) then I suggest gradually building up speed and incline throughout the walk.

The Flower Walk

I came up with this walk idea last year when I was feeling especially uninspired and sad. And yes, I am working on finding a way to patent and then monetize it. The concept is as follows: walk wherever you want and pick flowers as you go, stop once you have a sufficient bouquet. This is a great way to explore a new city or find new love in a familiar place. A few rules: try not to take flowers from private property…but if you must, be sneaky! This is my personal favorite walk and once lasted me all day, it really makes you stop and quite literally smell the roses.

Certified Walking Tip: Bring bug

The Sparkle Walk

This one I found on TikTok, so will not be patenting or monetizing, but essentially it’s just a laid-back walk with sparkling water. Choose your favorite brand but, if you’re feeling fancy, a lime Perrier in a glass bottle would be the most iconic move here. This is a great walk to take with friends as it is chat-friendly!

Certified Walking Tip: If you want to take this bad boy up a level, this is prime mocktail territory, muddle up some berries, sprig some mint, and go!

The Wine Walk

Similar to the Sparkle Walk in concept, but with alcohol. Additionally, this has to take place at sunset or, better yet, night. Pour your fav vino, get your friends, and walk in a SAFE PLACE (aka maybe save for your quiet summer getaway).

Certified Walking Tip: Check your carrying laws so you don’t end up taking a walk to the police station

(better yet, put your wine in a water bottle that’s not see-through).

The Meditative Walk

This walk is best in the morning! Walking within an hour of waking up is apparently super sexy for your circadian rhythm. Take this one outside with NO distractions. No music, no podcasts, no phone calls. Walk slow and try to really take in your surroundings. Ponder, take deep breaths, the works. This walk in my opinion is best when kept short. I think of it more as a quick pick me up or as a substitute when someone tells you to touch grass.

Certified Walking Tip: Alternate between looking at trees, grass, and the sky. This is a great way to cast your mind outwards if you struggle with any stubborn/overthinking tendencies.

The Bird Walk

Bird watching is quite literally all the rage right now. If you’re not currently staring at a bird you’re behind. But, if you find just sitting around waiting for the birds to come to you (or are, like me, bird feeder-less) boring, then this walk is for you. Essentially go outside and watch some birds. I’m really into pigeons right now (and happen to live in NYC) so I go out and count how many pigeons I see. If you see an especially lovely bird, snap some pics and annoy your family and friends with them. You could also walk for multiple kids of birds and just count the grand total of all types you see.

Certified Walking Tip: If birds aren’t for you (aka you’re lame) this can extend to anything, have a dog-watching walk or a butterfly-watching walk! It’s a good way to engage with your surroundings--plus I love having a task to accomplish!