Health benefits just a ten-minute walk away, experts say

But those who want to get into shape are being reminded that just 10 minutes a day dedicated to doing some brisk walking could change their lives.

Active Cumbria, part of Cumbria County Council’s public health and communities service, is supporting a new Public Health England initiative to help more adults get off the couch and get moving.

Richard Johnston, Active Cumbria senior manager, said: “Moderate intensity physical activity every day, including 10 continuous minutes of brisk walking, can lower the risk of serious illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Other benefits are increased physical fitness, improved mood, improved quality of life, increased physical leanness and healthier weight.”

The Public Health England drive perfectly complements the Go Active in Cumbria campaign , which focuses on a range of easy starter activities, including walking. People are being encouraged to download a free app - Active 10 - to show how much brisk walking they do a day, and to provide tips and encouragement for fitting the 10 minutes into their day.

Ian Stewart, Cumbria County Council’s portfolio holder for public health and communities, said: “The sedentary nature of much of modern life means that when you get into your 40s and 50s, many people have increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. With all the stresses of modern day life, exercise can sometimes be the last thing you want to do.

“This campaign aims to reach out to those people to encourage them to start doing 10 minutes of brisk walking, showing that this counts as exercise too. There are a range of ways that people can fit 10 continuous minutes of brisk walking into their everyday lives, including walking to work, stepping out at lunchtime, walking to the shops or local park, or taking the dog for a walk.

“To get the benefits of an active lifestyle there is no need to join an expensive fitness programme or to wear sportswear. Walking counts too.”