How to Start a Walking Group in Your Neighbourhood

Over 10,000 Istanbul residents have joined walking groups in the past year, with many more expected to follow suit as the city's residents seek to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

The rise of community fitness events and group exercise in Istanbul is a response to the growing awareness of the importance of regular physical activity for overall health. With the city's busy streets and crowded public transport, it can be challenging to find the motivation to get moving, but walking groups offer a fun and social way to stay active. As the summer months approach, Istanbul's residents are looking for ways to stay cool and healthy, and walking groups are an ideal solution.

In Istanbul, there are many beautiful and historic neighbourhoods to explore on foot, from the scenic Bosphorus running path to the tranquil Belgrad Forest hiking trails. The Acibadem hospital network has also launched a series of community fitness initiatives, including walking groups and exercise classes, in partnership with local community centres and parks. For example, the Kadıköy neighbourhood has a number of walking groups that meet weekly at the Kadıköy Pier, while the Beşiktaş neighbourhood has a popular walking group that meets at the Beşiktaş Park.

Getting Started

According to data from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, over 70% of residents who join walking groups report an improvement in their mental health and wellbeing. With an average cost of just 20 TL per session, walking groups are an affordable and accessible way to get active and meet new people. Since the launch of the municipality's community fitness program in 2020, over 50 new walking groups have been established across the city, with many more in the pipeline. As of June 2026, there are over 200 walking groups operating in Istanbul, with new groups starting every month.

So how can you start a walking group in your neighbourhood? First, identify a safe and scenic route, such as the Bosphorus running path or a local park. Next, set a regular meeting time and date, and invite friends, family and neighbours to join. You can also promote your walking group through social media and local community centres. With a little planning and effort, you can establish a thriving walking group that brings people together and improves the health and wellbeing of your community. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality also offers resources and support for community fitness initiatives, including walking groups, so be sure to reach out to them for more information and guidance.