8 Reasons to get out and get walking

1. Walking is good for you general health

The Stroke Association says that a brisk 30-minute walk every day helps to prevent and control the high blood pressure that causes strokes. 

1. Walking lowers disease risk

A regular walking habit slashes the risk of type 2 diabetes by around 60 percent. 

1. Walking helps you lose weight

You’ll burn around 75 calories simply by walking at 2mph for 30 minutes. Up your speed to 3mph and it’s 99 calories, while 4mph is 150 calories (equivalent to three Jaffa cakes and a jam doughnut!). 

1. Walking prevents dementia

Older people who walk six miles or more per week are more likely to avoid brain shrinkage and preserve memory as the years pass.

1. Walking tones up legs, bums and tums

Give definition to calves, quads and hamstrings while lifting your gluts with a good, regular walk. Add hill walking into the mix and it’s even more effective.

1. Walking boosts vitamin D

We all need to get outside more. Many people in the UK are vitamin D deficient, affecting important things like bone health and our immune systems.

1. Walking gives you energy

You’ll get more done with more energy, and a brisk walk is one of the best natural energisers around. It boosts circulation and increases oxygen supply to every cell in your body. 

1. Walking makes you happy

Studies show that a brisk walk is just as effective as antidepressants in mild to moderate cases of depression, releasing feel-good endorphins while reducing stress and anxiety.