Hippocrates wisely said, “Walking is the best medicine.” A wide range of studies have established that regular physical activity has a better overall effect on well-being and longevity than any other medical treatment. Unfortunately, many people find it difficult to achieve the recommended quantity and intensity of exercise prescribed by most physicians. (This amounts to about 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week.)
That said, if you don’t have time for long workouts—or hate breaking a sweat—I have good news. A new study reports that just fifteen minutes of moderate daily physical activity (such as taking a walk) is associated with a 22% lower risk of death for people over 60 years of age. Previous research has shown that small amounts of exercise reap huge benefits for people of all ages.
Here are 6 benefits of walking every day for 15 minutes
- Walking boosts your mood
- Walking improves cognitive performance
- Walking lowers blood pressure
- Walking can help prevent or control diabetes
- Walking can help reduce pain and improve mobility
