Add longer walks to your exercise routine

Walking is a very popular form of exercise today. Many people walk for good health on a regular basis, while others have chosen to add small jaunts here and there throughout the day to increase their amount of movement. The good intentions are certainly there, but, according to researchers, this might not be enough.

A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health (September 2003) has shown that while walking is popular, few people do enough of it to benefit their health. Researchers of this study surveyed healthy workers and homemakers and found that while most walked for transport or recreation, only 17.2 percent actually did enough walking to gain health benefits. However, those participants reporting regular walks as well as other activities on a regular basis were more likely to achieve the recommended levels of activity.

So, while walking is definitely good for the body, a comprehensive exercise program that encourages an array of activities like swimming and biking, in addition to walking, may help people to better meet their minimum exercise requirements.