WOMEN are being called to pull their boots on and join a new walking group.
The Uplift Initiative CIC has launched Walk and Talk to give women in north Solihull a gentle, pressure‑free way to move their bodies, connect with others, and feel less isolated.
The weekly women’s fitness class is designed to support those who currently do less than 30 minutes of exercise per week, offering a relaxed, supportive introduction to physical activity in a social setting.
Tammy Pickett, director at Uplift Initiative CIC, said: “Many of the women we support are juggling caring responsibilities, financial stress, low confidence, or past trauma, which can make gyms or formal groups feel overwhelming.
“Walking side‑by‑side removes that pressure.
“There’s no spotlight, no expectation to talk, and no cost. It’s a simple, dignified way to support both mental and physical wellbeing while building routine, confidence, and community.
“We are focused on supporting women who get less than 30 minutes per week of exercise but, we do not exclude those that get more.”
The Sport England funded project takes walkers on guided walks starting at 9.30am from Elmwood Family Hub in Smith’s Wood, starting at a gentle pace and gradually increasing over time.
As confidence and fitness build, walks will extend up to two hours over the coming weeks.
Sessions will be followed by coffee and cake at the Family Hub, Elmwood Place.
Tammy said: “We launched Walk and Talk at this time because the early part of the year is especially difficult for many women.
“Low mood, money worries, and limited opportunities to get out of the house all collide.
“We were hearing from women who wanted something consistent, outdoors, and low‑pressure.
“Starting now means offering a warm, welcoming space exactly when people need it most, and it aligns with our wider plan to build regular, early‑intervention wellbeing activities across the area.”
Tammy said the project is looking to include a monthly hike and free fitness classes in the future.
