Steve Haywood Health & Fitness

You can walk during lunchtime

Walking is arguably the most natural thing we do, and we have been bipeds for tens of thousands of years. However, as most of us are aware, the modern world has gradually reduced the amount we walk. Transport, especially cars, mean that even on the shortest of journeys people have ceased to walk.

Recognising this inactivity the government has issued recommendations to try and encourage people to walk 10,000 steps per day, which is over twice the amount that most people were found to walk. Depending on your stride length 10,000 steps equates to between 4 and 5 miles so it is a reasonable distance.

To help people achieve this distance the easy way is to use a pedometer that you attach to yourself and it counts the steps. As with most increases in activity it is best to progress the exercise gradually but also do not make 10,000 steps the end result, keep going if you are enjoying it. Try to get friends or family to join in with you which can introduce an element of competition but also the all important motivation.

Tanita 3 Axis Pedometer Black Silver £24 from John Lewis

A good way of increasing steps is to think about active daily living. In other words – if you can walk it, do so. After that try to vary your routes to avoid tedium setting in and if you feel safe, get out in the parks and countryside. The benefits will come, be patient and keep going, if you start sliding back find out what your council or local ramblers group is offering regarding walking groups. So enjoy the most natural activity in the world and discover a whole new world and a whole new you.