NHS England is preparing a new walking initiative under its 10-year health plan that encourages adults to be more physically active. The programme, described as “marathon a month” (also referred to as Movement 26.2), is due to start in 2027. It aims to tackle physical inactivity, which is linked to major health harms and associated costs and deaths. The scheme is built around getting participants to do about a 30-minute walk each day, with emphasis on total activity accumulated over a month rather than a strict daily streak.
Sources say participation will involve logging walking distance or time via a smartphone or smartwatch. Rewards will initially be digital, with the possibility of longer-term, more tangible incentives such as medals and clothing, along with discounts and other benefits. NHS Points Scheme methods are described as part of how activity will be recorded and incentives delivered.
Experts cited across the coverage welcome efforts to motivate movement but note that such rewards should sit within wider prevention and health-support policies. Funding for rewards is expected to shift over time, relying partly on corporate and philanthropic support.
