Walking Towards Better Health


Woman running on a path close up.

We all know exercise is important, but it doesn’t have to be anything too strenuous. Walking has many health benefits, both physical and psychological, so why not stretch your legs and go a wander.

Sitting for long periods of time is bad for your health and your posture. It’s certainly an idea to swap any short commutes with a brisk stroll. And when you’ve got a bit of spare time strap on a pair of comfy shoes, head outside, find a local path and explore your surroundings by foot.

There are lots of reasons for walking. Here are just a few!

  1. Some nine million people walk for pleasure for at least 30 minutes once a month.
  2. Walking is especially popular with people over the age of fifty-five.
  3. Walking is sociable exercise and can help prevent or ease depression.
  4. All you need is a sturdy, comfortable pair of shoes to start off with.
  5. Dress in layers so that you can take some
    off when you start
    to warm up.
  6. Make sure you take some water with you as the exercise will make you thirsty.
  7. Regular exercise halves the risk of
    type 2 diabetes and protects against cancer.
  8. Staying active reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke
    by up to a third.
  9. Experts recommend two and a half hours of moderate physical activity every week.

Hannah McLaren

I've worked at DC Thomson for six years! I began as an intern at My Weekly and The Scots Magazine, which was extended by a few months to help out at The People's Friend. I then covered maternity as Celebrity Editor for My Weekly, before I became Multimedia Journalist at The Scots Magazine. Currently I'm writing digital content across each title.