Walking your way to a longer life

That new year’s resolution to take out a gym membership may already be looking a little hasty. Spring may be finally on the horizon but we’re not yet clear of the winter and exercising feels harder for everyone when the days are short and chilly. But the benefits of walking every day are far reaching. The British Heart Foundation says just 30 minutes walking a day can help keep your heart healthy. A new study from the University of Pittsburgh suggests that walking for 40 minutes a few times a week can actually increase the part of your brain that makes memories and help keep you mentally sharp in old age. A different study in the American Medical Association Journal has suggested that older people who walk quickly may actually live longer than their contemporaries. It’s thought that regular walking can also help to stave off type 2 diabetes, asthma, stroke and some cancers.

You don’t have to march out for a ten mile walk every day. If you aren’t used to it, start gradually. Try doing three ten minute walks a day and build up to one 30-minute one. Make sure you wear comfortable supportive shoes or trainers. Begin slowly and gradually increase your pace, then gradually slow down towards the end.

All of us can find a way to walk more, even those with the busiest lives. If you can’t get out and walk in a park, you can still think about getting off the bus or train one stop early, taking the stairs instead of the escalator and walking to the local shops instead of taking the car. Once you get into the habit, your long term health and sense of wellbeing will improve and who knows, you may even get addicted.