We all know that staying active is important for health. But just how important? And how active?

A 24 year study from the American Cancer Society recently concluded that “Going for a walk at an average to brisk pace can provide people with a tremendous health benefit. It’s free, easy, and can be done anywhere.”

The study followed 140,000 people, and found that all levels of walking, even less than the recommended guidelines, contributed to lower mortality risks. Walking for less than two hours per week lowered mortality compared to those that did not walk at all. Walking for 150 minutes or more per week (about 20 minutes per day) lowered risk of death by 20%!
Benefits were scene in cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and cancer.

Wow! If you’re already walking every day - that’s great! If you’re thinking that you should be walking more, you’re probably right.

There is one tool we recommend to anyone who is interested in living a longer, healthier life:

A Walking App.

Using a walking app helps you get in the habit of walking multiple times per week. With a built-in step counter, you can easily track how much activity you are getting each day.

We recommend the app Home Walking & Exercise, which can be found on the App Store or Google Play.

Many studies have shown that repetition is the key to building new habits. A walking app will remind you to walk each day, and you can complete challenges that encourage you to progress.

With the built in GPS map, you can map your routes, and keep track of your pace, calories burned, and distance walked.

Marathons are not required! Just 15-20 minutes of walking consistently every week will do wonders for your mind and body.