Couch to Coast

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Leading a more active lifestyle brings with it a wealth of benefits, including improvements to our physical and emotional wellbeing. In addition to this, spending time outdoors in nature can vastly improve our overall health. That’s why we created Couch to Coast. Similar to the NHS running plan ‘Couch to 5k’, we help people gradually build fitness, stamina and confidence to go from sitting on the sofa, to doing a 5k walk on the South West Coast Path.

Who is it for?

Couch to Coast is designed to suit the ability of someone taking their first footsteps into increasing their activity and leading a healthier lifestyle. Each participant is able to take the walk at a pace they feel comfortable with and we have staff and volunteers available to help guide you along the route.

Where are the walks taking place?

All walks take place on the beautiful South West Coast Path or in and around the town, which it passes through. Each walk gives you a chance to build your fitness, but also spend important quality time in the great outdoors, connecting actively to nature. It's also a great opportunity to meet new people in your area and socialise. After each walk, there is an opportunity to get a tea or coffee and chat with fellow Coast to Couch walkers. Check below to see the next available walking groups.

Upcoming projects

We hope to run further projects in 2022 - watch this space for updates.

Completed Couch to Coast projects

Plymstock
Teignmouth
Westward Ho!
Torquay
Barnstaple
Ilfracombe
Exmouth

How far will I be expected to walk?

We start by walking 1-2km on easy flat terrain, building up to a 5km walk over the course of 12 weeks. The walks take place once every two weeks and you will be encouraged to walk in between each meet up (though this is not compulsory).

How much does it cost?

Couch to Coast is FREE to take part in thanks for funding from Active Devon and the Connecting Actively to Nature (CAN) initiative. You may need to pay for public transport (or petrol if you drive) to get to an agreed meeting place, but there will be no other costs associated with taking part. Participants will be expected to complete a registration form that captures information about current activity levels so that we can monitor how effective the Couch to Coast has been at improving activity levels at the end of 12 weeks.

How do I get involved?

Take a look at our 'Upcoming projects' above to see if there is a Couch to Coast project near you. We'll also list any projects on the way as 'Coming soon' which you can register your interest for below. Once registered, we'll be in touch with more information about dates, meeting points and walking routes. We’ll also give you information about what you will need to bring with you.

About the Project

This project is being funded by a flagship initiative from the Devon Local Nature Partnership, working to help tackle inactivity amongst people over the age of 55 in Devon (more information here). The programme is funded by Sport England through lottery ticket sales. The aim is to tackle the growing problem of activity drop-off in the crucial retirement transition period and beyond, and to reach out to people to provide activities, information and support.