Walking is proven to reduce your risk of some chronic illnesses

Walking is a simple, low-impact exercise that has been proven to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. In the United Kingdom, the government has recognised the importance of physical activity in maintaining good health, and has launched campaigns to encourage people to walk more.

One of the main benefits of walking is its ability to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. According to the British Heart Foundation, walking for at least 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by up to 35%. This is because walking helps to improve the health of the cardiovascular system, by increasing blood flow, reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels and strengthening the heart and lungs.

In addition to reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, walking can also help to prevent and manage type 2 diabetes. This is because walking helps to improve insulin sensitivity, which is the body’s ability to use insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that regular walking can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 60%, and can help to control blood sugar levels in people who already have the condition.

Walking has also been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer. For example, a study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that women who walked for at least seven hours a week had a 14% lower risk of breast cancer compared to women who did little or no walking. Other studies have found that regular walking can reduce the risk of colon cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer.

Aside from its physical health benefits, walking is also beneficial for mental health. Walking has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and boost self-esteem. This is because walking helps to release endorphins, which are natural chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of well-being.

The UK government has recognised the importance of physical activity in maintaining good health and has launched several campaigns to encourage people to walk more. One of these campaigns is the “Walk to School” campaign, which encourages children and parents to walk to school instead of driving or taking public transport. Another campaign is “Active 10”, which encourages people to aim for at least 10 minutes of brisk walking every day.

In addition to government campaigns, there are also several initiatives at the local level to encourage people to walk more. For example, some local councils have introduced walking groups, which offer guided walks for people of all ages and abilities. Other initiatives include the creation of walking routes and the installation of signs to encourage people to walk more.

By taking small steps to incorporate walking into our daily routine, we can all reap the many benefits of this low-impact exercise.

‘For Men To Talk – Biggleswade… and Walk’ is held on the 2nd Sunday every month at 9.15am. starting from Jones’ Cafe in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. 

‘For Men To Talk – Bedford… and Walk’ is held every Thursday at 6pm, starting from Cloverdale Retreat, Priory Country Park in Bedford, Bedfordshir