October 09, 2012

Brisk walks could reduce heart risks, says new research

Couple walking outdoorsGoing for a jog or taking a brisk walk every day could reduce your chance of developing the risk factors for a heart attack or stroke by 50%, according to new research.

Scientists studied the health of over 10,000 people for 10 years. They found that people who jogged or who had a higher walking speed had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, than those who had more sedentary lives or who walked at slower speeds.

Our Senior Cardiac Nurse Maureen Talbot, said: “This study reminds us that it is only physical activities that leave us feeling warm or breathing more heavily that are good for our health.

Try turning it from a leisurely stroll into a power walk

“Jogging or walking briskly makes the heart beat faster - exercising the heart muscle - and we should all try to do activities each day which get the blood pumping.

“So if you want to make the walk to work or to the shops part of keeping your heart healthy then try turning it from a leisurely stroll into a power walk to get the benefits.”

Walking is a great way to to look after your heart, and it's a great way help raise money for us. Whatever your age or fitness we've a wide range of walks from tough hikes to easier routes in beautiful parkland. We rely on your donations to keep up the fight against heart disease. Find out more about our walking events.

The new study was published in the British Medical Journal.