Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician who was the father of Western medicine, famously stated that “walking is man’s best medicine”. More than two millennia later, modern research absolutely agrees and the evidence is only getting stronger.
Before the 18th century, walking was principally associated with functional activities: working, completing errands or pilgrimages. But during the 18th century, there was a shift towards appreciating the outdoors and nature, and so walking started to develop into a pleasurable leisure activity. From then on, the idea of walking as a simple way to exercise gained momentum, and now there is a real focus on the very tangible and powerful health benefits of going for a simple walk.
May has been National Walking Month – but don’t worry if you have missed out, because with better weather upon us, now is the perfect time to get acquainted with the amazing impact that walking has – it is free and simple, and really can keep us healthy.
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Longevity and health span
