In the Netherlands, it rains an average of 192 days per year, yet only 44% of people get enough physical activity. Rainwalks shows that rain can also create opportunities for health and livability. The organization develops walking routes that only become visible when it rains. With temporary artworks, play elements, and challenges, rain is turned into an invitation to go outside.

During the Wereldhavendagen in Rotterdam, HAN University of Applied Sciences and Rainwalks studied how visitors experienced the routes and which elements motivated them to participate. Through interactive activities such as a wheel of fortune, games, and co-creation elements, 260 visitors were engaged. Most participants said that Rainwalks would encourage them to go outside more often in the rain, with children and families responding most enthusiastically. Short walking routes of about 1.5 to 2 kilometers (15–20 minutes) were preferred. Elements like treasure hunts and games were found to be especially appealing. Variety also proved important: new routes and art forms keep people coming back.

The next step is to test whether Rainwalks actually leads to long-term behavioral change. The team is developing routes with more play and art elements for both children and adults and is seeking collaboration with schools, municipalities, and health organizations. Because Rainwalks can reach many users with relatively low investment, the concept has great potential to engage people in socially and economically vulnerable positions—especially in areas where physical activity promotion is most needed.

The research on Rainwalks was conducted by HAN University of Applied Sciences, with Rainwalks as the practice partner, and was funded through Innofest X SIA Sport by Regieorgaan SIA, Sportinnovator, and Innofest.

In collaboration with
Regieorgaan SIA, Sportinnovator, CLICK NL, HAN University of Applied Sciences & Wereldhavendagen Rotterdam