Walking is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to burn calories and stay fit. Recently, I decided to explore long-distance walking as a way to combine exercise, adventure, and mental relaxation — and the experience amazed me.
Last Sunday, I went on a 10-hour walk through Berlin with a friend. By the end of the day, we had covered just over 35 kilometers and burned around 2,134 calories. What surprised me the most was how low-impact and enjoyable this type of exercise can be.
Why Long Distance Walking Works So Well
Unlike running or intense gym workouts, long walks put less strain on your joints while still helping you burn significant calories. Even after hours of walking, I felt exhausted but not injured. My friend developed a few blisters — likely from wearing the wrong sneakers — which reminded me how important proper footwear is for long-distance activities.
If you’re considering doing something similar, pay attention to your shoes. Blisters can turn a great walk into a painful experience. Choose breathable, cushioned sneakers and moisture-wicking socks for comfort.
The Details of My 10-Hour Walk
We started our walk near Alexanderplatz, heading east until we eventually exited Berlin’s city limits. The weather was ideal — around 15°C during the day and 10–11°C in the evening, though the wind made it slightly chilly after a few hours.
Surprisingly, we didn’t take our first break until hour eight, when we found a small restaurant and had dinner. For the rest of the journey, we relied on water and protein bars.
What stood out most was the steady pace we were able to maintain throughout the walk. Unlike hiking through the mountains, where terrain and distractions can slow you down, walking on flat terrain allows you to stay consistent and focused.
Tracking the Data (and the Pacer App Issue)
To keep track of our distance and calories, we used two different apps, one of which was the Pacer app. However, I noticed some discrepancies in the data it reported — something I’ve already discussed in detail in my previous article about Pacer app accuracy.
Despite the inconsistency, the walk itself was a success. I’m planning to compare multiple tracking apps on future walks to find the most reliable one.
Why You Should Try Long-Distance Walking
If you want an effective, sustainable, and enjoyable way to lose weight, long-distance walking is a great choice. It helps with:
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Calorie burning without overexertion
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Improved endurance and stamina
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Mental relaxation and focus
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Better cardiovascular health
You can learn more about how walking helps with weight loss in my guide on walking to lose weight.
Final Thoughts
That 10-hour, 35-kilometer walk reminded me that sometimes the best workouts are the simplest ones. With good shoes, light snacks, and the right mindset, anyone can experience the benefits of long-distance walking.
If you’re looking for a challenge that’s both fun and rewarding, I highly recommend planning your own long walk — whether it’s through a city, along a river, or out in nature.
Read here >> 7-day walking challenge, aiming to hit 20,000 steps every day!
