Winter and lockdown may have combined this year to make staying fit and well extra difficult. But there’s still something free and readily available that can make the world of difference to your health – walking.
‘Walking is a powerful medicine,’ says GP Dr Nick Summerton, health advisor to walking charity The Ramblers. ‘A regular daily dose improves the way our bodies work, lowers stress levels and helps us to sleep better. It can treat the symptoms of depression and prevent it starting in the first place.
‘If you’re spending a lot of time sitting down and are particularly out of trim, then you’ll have the most to gain by even a small increase in activity, such as going for a short walk. People who keep moving are much less likely to get heart problems, strokes, diabetes, dementia or even cancer.’
The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (such as brisk walking) a week. ‘Many of us struggle to achieve this target, perhaps because we set goals that are vague,’ says Dr Summerton.
He has devised a six-week walking plan exclusively for Woman’s Weekly to get you out there.
4 great bits of kit
This story is from the March 09, 2021 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 09, 2021 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GARDEN notes
Vibrant annuals and fruit and veg
Springtime IN VENICE
A weekend in this floating city is a feast for the senses
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Breathe EASY
Do you need an air purifier at home? We find out
Stress-free ENTERTAINING
Enjoy a seasonal prep-ahead spread with friends or family
Bonded FOR LIFE
As a new mother faced the most agonising of challenges, her best friend stepped in to hel
The easy way TO EXERCISE AND HEALTH
You don't need a gym to get fit, just mini bursts of activity throughout the day to get you in shape. Here's how
TESTED BY US!
Dry shampoo refreshes hair between washes - and lifts roots and boosts volume. Here are our favourites
'Coronation Street changed my life'
Actor Georgia Taylor on finding fun and lasting friendships on the cobbles
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY