How to walk your way to better health: five simple tips to supercharge your stroll and transform your wellbeing

Walking can be brilliant for wellbeing and small changes can have a significant impact. Here’s how to maximise your morning commute or weekend ramble

Physical activity doesn’t need to be complicated. Even just a brisk, 10-minute daily walk can deliver a host of health benefits, lowering the risk of several diseases, including heart disease, stroke and several cancers.

By making a few small changes to the way you walk it’s possible to transform this simple everyday activity, making it even more beneficial for your health. If you’re looking to get more out of your walks, here are five ways to supercharge them.

Warm up and cool down: Begin with a few minutes of easy walking to warm up your muscles. End your walk by slowing your pace down and finish with some gentle stretches to cool down.

Wear proper footwear: Choose comfortable shoes with good support to prevent injuries.

Stay hydrated: Bring water, especially on longer walks or in hot weather to avoid dehydration.

Listen to your body: If you experience pain or discomfort, slow down or take a break. Speak to your doctor if the problem persists.

Gradually increase intensity: Whether you’re adding weight, tackling hills or increasing your speed, do so gradually to allow your body to adapt. This means doing a little more each time to gauge how you’re feeling.