Here are 8 reasons why walking is the bees' knees!

1. Walking strengthens your heart

Reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by walking regularly. It is great heart exercise, reducing bad cholesterol, increasing good cholesterol. The Stroke Association says that a brisk daily 30-minute walk helps to control the high blood pressure that causes strokes.

2. Walking lowers disease risk

A regular walking habit slashes the risk of type 2 diabetes by around 60 percent, and you are 20 percent less likely to develop cancer of the colon, breast, or womb with an active hobby such as walking.

3. Walking helps you lose weight

You will burn around 75 calories simply by walking at 2mph for 30 minutes. Raise that to 3mph and it is 99 calories, while 4mph is 150 calories which is equivalent to three Jaffa cakes and a jam doughnut!  Work that short walk into your daily routine and you will shed the pounds in no time

4. Walking prevents dementia

Older people who walk six miles or more per week are more likely to avoid brain shrinkage and preserve memory. Since dementia affects one in 14 people over 65 and one in 6 over 80, that’s a pretty good idea.

5. Walking tones up legs, bums, and tums

Give definition to calves, quads and hamstrings while lifting your glutes (bum muscles) with a good, regular walk. Add hill walking and it’s even more effective. Pay attention to your posture and you will also tone your abs and waist.

6. Walking boosts vitamin D

We all need to get out more. Many people are vitamin D deficient, affecting things like bone health and our immune systems. Walking is the best way to enjoy the outdoors while getting your vitamin D fix.

7. Walking gives you energy

You will 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 body cell, helping you to feel more alert and alive. Try walking in your lunch break to achieve more in the afternoon.

8. Walking makes you happy

It is true – exercise boosts your mood. Studies show that a brisk walk is just as effective as anti-depressants in mild to moderate cases of depression, releasing feel-good endorphins while reducing stress and anxiety. For positive mental health, walking’s an absolute must!