Walking for just 30 minutes a day could soon come with a reward. NHS England is developing a new initiative that would encourage people to be more physically active by offering vouchers, discounts and other rewards to those who regularly meet walking targets.
The scheme, which is expected to launch in 2027, aims to tackle sedentary lifestyles and reduce the number of chronic illnesses linked to physical inactivity, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Participants would be able to track their daily activity using smartphones or smartwatches, earning rewards as they achieve specific goals.
The idea is to encourage healthier habits while helping reduce pressure on the UK’s healthcare system, where inactivity is estimated to cost the NHS around £1billion each year.
Many Londoners believe the proposal could make a real difference. Alex, a 32-year-old office worker living in London, welcomes the initiative.
“Whenever I can, I prefer walking instead of taking public transport,” he said. “It helps me clear my mind after work, I get some exercise, and I save money on travel too.
“If there were an incentive for walking, I think it would be a great idea and would encourage even more people to do the same.
“Sometimes all you need is a little extra motivation to choose to walk instead of getting on a bus or the Tube.”
While the programme is still under development and the final details have yet to be confirmed, it reflects a growing focus on prevention rather than treatment.
If implemented, the UK would become one of the first countries in Europe to introduce a nationwide incentive scheme encouraging people to walk every day, using small rewards to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
Health officials say the NHS will not be paying for the rewards. They added the NHS in England will be in partnership with other organisations from the public and private sectors who will help run the scheme.
GPs and other health professionals will be encouraged to promote the initiative among their patients.
Featured image credit: Marianna Pia Taormina
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