Walk for fitness

Walk yourself healthy

Think walking doesn't really count in the fitness stakes? Think again.

Walking for 10 minutes (or, ideally, more) a day contributes to the 150 active minutes a week you should be aiming for to help improve your overall health and wellbeing, reduce your risk of cancer or heart disease, and combat obesity.

Walking just one mile (20 minutes) will burn more than 100 calories - and try and keep it brisk. You'll know you are pushing yourself if you find yourself breathing harder than usual (you should be able to speak in full sentences, but unable to sing comfortably).

Make your walking work harder for your health by crossing a variety of terrain: soft ground, a sandy beach, heathland, even through the grass in a park; while adding some uphill walking will bring even more benefits.

Not sure you've got time to walk? Try a brisk walk at lunchtime - it will not only burn calories, but will leave you fresher and invigorated for the afternoon. If you travel by bus, try walking an extra 10 minutes at the start or end of your journey to fit in your daily walk.

Majorca: perfect for a walking holiday

UK: choose your route for a walking holiday