Sometimes the simplest things are the ones we most often forget about — and walking is one of them. While solo walking is great too, walking with a significant other, friend, or family member can significantly strengthen your bond with them and improve your health at the same time.

1. Being in Nature Lowers Stress

Even if you don’t live somewhere with large parks or lots of nature, spending time around any greenery — even simple plants and bushes! — has been found to lower levels of cortisol, our body’s primary stress hormone. Even just 20 minutes outside near plants or green spaces can lower cortisol immediately. This then lowers both physiological and emotional feelings of stress, which is beneficial for strengthening any relationship. 

2. Allows Time For Communication 

A perk of walking together with someone is that there’s no room for distractions — no TV, no phone, no scrolling on Instagram. You’re completely present with the other person and with nature, allowing direct and honest communication about things you might not usually talk about at home or in another setting. 

3. Getting Healthier Together 

Whether you’re walking with a friend, significant other, or family member, it is motivating to get healthier when you have a partner doing the same things you are. Although walking may not seem like it’s the best way to lose weight, a steady walking routine actually has dozens of health benefits, ranging from lowering the risk of heart disease to reducing body fat. 

4. Walking Boosts Mood

Most people come out of a long walk feeling happier and more energized than when they started. This can be hugely beneficial for strengthening relationships because we all feel closer to our people when in a good mood. 

5. Walking is a Free Date 

For couples on a budget or two friends looking for a cheap way to spend time together, going for a long walk is a great way to strengthen a relationship. Skip the expensive dinner or movie tickets and, instead, find a new neighborhood or scenic area to walk through and explore together.