NHS launches Movement 26.2 walking rewards in England

A new nationwide program will offer rewards to people in England who walk the equivalent of a marathon each month, as part of a major public health initiative to combat physical inactivity. The NHS-backed campaign, called Movement 26.2, is scheduled to launch in January 2027.

The challenge encourages participants to walk for approximately 20 to 30 minutes daily, which accumulates to roughly 26.2 miles over a month. People will be able to log their activity through a digital platform, such as a dedicated app, website, or via their phone or smartwatch. Those who meet their targets will become eligible for a rewards system offering digital badges, medals, discounts, and shopping vouchers, modeled on loyalty schemes used by retailers and fitness apps.

The initiative is being developed in partnership with former Olympic medallist Sir Brendan Foster and businessman Sir Keith Mills, with support from NHS England. The health service will fund the initial rollout, with the goal of attracting corporate sponsors as the program expands. Organizers aim to sign up more than 100,000 participants.

Sir Brendan Foster described the campaign's straightforward premise, stating the challenge asks...