NHS to reward daily walking in marathon challenge as Tour de France heads to Scotland

The NHS is set to reward people for exercise, launching a "marathon a month" challenge early next year. The scheme, developed with former Olympic medallist Sir Brendan Foster, asks participants to walk for around 30 minutes a day. Those who complete the challenge will be eligible for incentives and discounts. Physical inactivity is associated with one in six deaths, according to NHS England. A survey by Sport England showed nearly a quarter of adults – roughly 12 million people – were physically inactive in the year to November 2025. Sir Brendan said the ambition is simple: "We just want people to walk." The scheme aims to sign up more than 100,000 people. If the target is hit, he said it would count as the biggest marathon in history. Users can log walks online or via phone or smartwatch. Under‑25s voiced support, with one describing the gamified challenge as a motivator. Lauren Andrew said she would take part: "I could go for a walk. That's free." The NHS is covering initial set‑up but plans to draw corporate philanthropic backing. Meanwhile, Scotland is preparing for the Tour de France, which arrives next year, prompting road upgrades.