One way to get more out of your 10,000 steps a day
Aiming for 10,000 steps a day is a popular fitness goal (Alamy/PA)
Aiming for 10,000 steps a day is a popular fitness goal, but incorporating short bursts of faster walking can significantly enhance its health benefits.
A study found that both the quantity and intensity of exercise contribute to improving the five cardiovascular risk factors for metabolic syndrome.
Even as little as one minute of high-intensity activity, could be beneficial.
Increasing walking speed, even for short periods, can lower blood pressure for up to 24 hours and blood glucose levels for up to 48 hours.
Combining regular walking with brief periods of more intense activity can also lead to weight loss, particularly a reduction in harmful visceral fat.