The wealthy middle-class girl could be taken out daily by her governess for a walk, and the few girls’ schools that were in existence for the middle classes often made a point of advertising their afternoon walks to potential parents in their prospectus. Sunday-school teachers, enlightened employers and a host of other people who saw themselves as supporting girls from poorer backgrounds were equally vocal in advocating walking to the girls who came under their sway. Even workhouses and prisons advocated outdoor walking exercise for girls and women, albeit round and round a grim yard.
