ABSTRACT
This chapter is concerned with a number of ‘forms’ of walking, showing that there is a range of purposes for ‘pedestrianism’. One way of considering the various ‘modes’ or types of walking are according to ‘motivation’, purpose or objective. Walking ‘itself’ has risen in ‘popularity’, with issues surrounding car journeys leading to search for alternatives. Respondents taking part in walking interview biographical research may have a range of motivations for agreeing to participate and in choosing the particular walk. ‘Re-formative’ as a walking motivational form lays stress on both personal physical and/or mental ‘renewal’, as well as having broader societal connections – as part, perhaps, of wider social trends, opportunities, or policy proposals. ‘Walking for health’ groups, particularly for the elderly, have proliferated, as doctors have advised activities for physical and mental improvement where appropriate. Walking may be implicated in identity formation in a number of ways.
