This Fathers’ Day (15-06-08), walking has topped a GB-wide poll (1) as the nation’s number one activity for people seeking a good chat with their dad. They are holding more than 270 over Fathers’ Day weekend to celebrate.
The poll, commissioned by the Ramblers’ Association (RA) ahead of Fathers’ Day 2008 asked respondents the activity they would turn to if they wanted “some time alone to have a good talk with dad.” Six out of ten respondents chose walking as the pursuit most likely to loosen the tongue, ahead of a visit to the shops, café, cinema or any other form of activity.
The notion that those who walk together, talk together, corresponds with previous Ramblers’ Association/ MORI research (2), which found first-time walkers reporting that they talked more, learnt more and spent more ‘quality time’ with children/ parents during recreational walks (Birmingham 2006).
Tom Franklin, CEO of the Ramblers’ Association, comments: “Walking is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable activities known to humankind. Walking lifts the mood and stimulates the mind and body; its no wonder that a shared stroll along a beautiful city street or country lane helps dad and the kids open up and breaks down communication barriers between even the most taciturn souls.”
The Ramblers’ Association is holding over 270 free, led walks over Fathers’ Day weekend, 65 of which are a family-friendly 6 miles and under. To find walks in your area, visit the Group Walk Finder on the RA website http://www.ramblers.org.uk/walksfinder and search by postcode.
For the perfect Fathers’ Day gift, children can buy their Dad a year’s membership to the Ramblers’ Association. From just £27 per year, this gives Dad unlimited walking opportunities all year round. Simply call 020 7339 8595 or visit www.ramblers.org.uk/join to find out more.
Ruth Wembridge, Head of Membership at the RA, comments: “Give dad the long-lasting gift of fresh air, freedom and wide-open spaces this summer with an annual RA membership, and help him permanently discover his chattier side.”
For further details, images and case studies, contact:
Ramblers’ Association Press Office
Tel: 020 7339 8531/32
Email: press@ramblers.org.uk
Web: www.ramblers.org.uk
