A new study has found the most common walking personalities – and which accessories people would most like to find under the Christmas tree
Adults can be categorised into one of eight walking personalities, including the ‘Social Stroller’ and the ‘Slouch’. A survey identified other common personas such as the ‘Fashion-over-Function’ walker who dons bright white trainers to a muddy field, and the ‘Overprepared’ individual who thinks of everything, even bringing along a flask of coffee and a first aid kit.
Just under a fifth (18%) identified themselves as a ‘Scenic Snapper’ – someone who will regularly pause the walk to take a photo of something that catches their eye. Take this quiz to find out which one of these eight personalities you are.
The survey of 2,000 winter-walking adults who celebrate Christmas discovered that the average person will go on roughly six walks over the festive period, with 61% feeling the ‘need to’ in order to burn off an excess of holiday food.
It also unveiled that the most breathtaking Christmas walks in the UK include the Lake District trails and Snowdonia National Park. The Cornish coastal paths, Peak District routes and Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh were also popular choices for hikes.
A spokesperson for Regatta, which commissioned the research, said: “Walking is one of the simplest ways to enjoy the outdoors, especially over Christmas.
“Those fresh winter days, whether bright and crisp or a bit drizzly, give us a chance to slow down, stretch our legs and clear our heads. It’s often the little moments outside that make the festive season feel even more special.”
The study went on to discover that the perfect walk would feature views of a river or lake (41%), followed by a jaunt through the woods (39%). It would be 3.2 miles on average, and end at a local pub.
Two thirds say going on a walk is a crucial part of their Christmas tradition. And while many people enjoy the fresh air and a chance to exercise, 38% see them as a good way of spending time with family.
Nearly three in 10 (28%) even confessed they enjoy a walk in ‘harsher’ winter weather conditions, like rain, frost or snow.
But top pet peeves were dog poo left on paths and trails (45%), muddy paths (37%) and overly crowded routes (30%), according to the OnePoll.com figures.
Waterproof jackets and thermal socks (both 26%) and handwarmers (20%) top the list of accessories walkers most want to find under the tree this year.
The spokesperson for Regatta said: “You don’t need to plan the perfect route or have loads of gear to enjoy a winter walk.
“Most of us simply head out and see where we end up – that’s part of the charm.
“But the British weather does like to keep us on our toes, especially at Christmas. “Even if you set off in bright sunshine, the rain can roll in quickly, so having the right waterproof or footwear can make all the difference.”
