Reading Hospital Walks to Wellness - a volunteer greets participants on the trail

Reading Hospital now offers a free walking program to help support your physical and emotional well‑being.

How It Works

  • When: Every Saturday at 9 a.m.
  • Where: Wyomissing Park, PA – meet at Parkside Drive South Parking Area
  • What to Expect:
    • Gentle group walk and mindfulness moment
    • No experience or equipment needed
  • Social Media: Use #ReadingWalks to connect 
Participation Registration Volunteer Registration

Benefits

Community & Well-Being

  • Monthly group walks improve community bonds and personal well-being for older adults
  • Group settings ease loneliness, build a sense of belonging, and bolster emotional resilience
  • Peer accountability makes it easier to stick with it - "much harder to skip when a group expects you"

Physical Health

  • Cardiovascular: Low-impact walking boosts heart health, circulation, and lowers blood pressure
  • Strength & Balance: Enhances muscle tone, bone density, flexibility, and fall prevention
  • Longevity: Even light but consistent walking lowers the risk of chronic illness and mortality

Mental & Emotional Well-Being

  • Reduces anxiety and depression, enhances mood via endorphins
  • Promotes cognitive function, memory, and stress reduction through aerobic activity
  • Green‑space group walks offer real-time mental health benefits

Accountability & Safety

  • Walking with others increases visibility and support—good for comfort and crisis assistance
  • Structured timing helps build consistency and motivation through community expectations

Walks To Wellness FAQs

Do I need experience?

Not at all—everyone’s welcome.

What if I’m not fit?

Walk at your own pace; mindfulness is optional.

What about bad weather?

We try to walk rain or shine, but if there is a storm, walks may be rescheduled; check your email for updates.

Safety measures?

Wear comfy shoes, bring water; volunteers/pacing leads are present.