Man plogging by river

♻️ Plogging: The Outdoor Fitness Trend That’s Cleaning Up the Planet

Imagine going for a jog — but instead of just burning calories, you’re also cleaning up your local park, beach, or trail. That’s the idea behind plogging, the eco-friendly workout trend that’s taking over paths and pavements across the UK.

It’s simple, powerful, and good for your health and the planet.

🚶♂️ What Is Plogging?

Plogging is a combination of the Swedish words “plocka upp” (to pick up) and “jogging”. It started in Sweden in 2016 and has since become a global movement, with regular meetups, fitness apps, and even organised “plogathons.”

🏃♀️ How it works:

As you jog (or walk!), you pick up litter along your route — whether it’s a crumpled can, snack wrapper, or rogue plastic bottle.

It turns your usual run into a small environmental mission.

🌍 Why Is Plogging Trending in the UK?

In 2025, plogging is gaining serious momentum across the UK, especially in outdoor-conscious communities and eco fitness groups. Here’s why:

  • More people are looking for low-cost, high-impact ways to stay active

  • Growing awareness of plastic pollution and litter in local parks and green spaces

  • It feels rewarding — you can see the difference you’re making

  • It’s family- and beginner-friendly

Local councils and groups like Keep Britain Tidy even encourage plogging in community clean-up initiatives.

💪 Health + Environmental Benefits

Plogging doesn’t just make your local trail prettier — it also ramps up your fitness.

Physical perks:

  • Full-body workout (you squat, bend, run, lift)

  • Great for core and leg strength

  • Improves mobility and endurance

  • Burns more calories than a regular jog

Eco wins:

  • Reduces wildlife hazards

  • Prevents litter from entering rivers or oceans

  • Inspires others to take notice and pitch in

Win-win.

🧤 What You Need to Start Plogging

You don’t need much to start — just some basics:

  • Reusable gloves or litter picker

  • Small bin bag or tote (reusable is best)

  • Hand sanitiser for after

  • Comfortable shoes/clothing for jogging or walking

  • Optionally: a friend or playlist to keep you motivated

If you’re outdoors often (like vanlifers, hikers, or paddleboarders), it’s easy to make plogging a part of your routine.

📍 Where to Go Plogging in the UK

You can plog anywhere! Here are a few great starting points:

  • Local footpaths or bridleways

  • National Trust sites

  • Beaches and coastal paths (check 2 Minute Beach Clean)

  • Urban green spaces and parks

  • Along riverbanks or towpaths

Look out for local events via Earth Runs or CleanupUK.

💬 Make It Social!

Want to get more people involved? Try this:

  • Post a photo of your “plogging haul” on Instagram or TikTok

  • Tag it with #ploggingUK or #ploggerlife

  • Invite friends to join or start a group event

  • Add it to your vanlife meetups, outdoor retreats, or hiking club days

It’s a small action that creates big ripples — and it’s totally free.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Plogging is proof that small, everyday actions can do a lot of good. Whether you’re on a short walk or a long trail run, picking up litter turns your time outside into something even more meaningful.

So next time you lace up your trainers, grab a glove and a bag — and plog your way to a cleaner, fitter world.

💚 Bonus Tip: Want your van or car to smell as fresh as the outdoors you’re cleaning up?

Check out our eco-friendly Wiffee car air fresheners — reusable, refillable, and inspired by adventure.

Back to blog