More than six million adults in the UK are so physically inactive that they aren’t even doing 10 minutes of brisk walking per month, a new study has revealed.
Public Health England recently published research showing that the highest levels of inactivity is among those aged between 40 and 60.
It found that 41 per cent of the 15.3 million people in that age group walk less than 10 minutes at a brisk pace – which is at least 3mph – each month.
That percentage are subsequently at risk of severe health problems such as obesity, diabetes and premature death.
The study discovered that middle-aged women from disadvantaged backgrounds were more likely to be physically unfit compared to middle-aged men.
To help, the government agency is promoting a free app – Active 10 – which can monitor the amount of brisk walking an individual does in a day and provide tips on how to introduce it into a daily routine.
According to Public Health England, walking just 10 minutes a day could reduce the risk of early death by 15 per cent.
Alan White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing at Staffordshire County Council, said: "A brisk ten minute walk each day can have real health benefits for people.
"Even if it's on your way to work, during a lunch break, taking the children to school or walking the dog, getting the heart going is good.
"Also with such a wonderful county as Staffordshire, there's no shortage of nice walking spots too.
"Walking or even cycling really are great ways to stay healthy, both mentally and physically.
"And, once you get into a bit of a routine it becomes easy and natural and you forget you’re even doing it.
"People can get free advice and support on staying active and a range of other health related topics by calling the Staffordshire Healthy Hub on 0300 111 8006."
Abbey Saunders, health guru and owner of Girl Got Glow, a Burton-based online health programme, said: "Improving fitness isn't just about losing weight or improving the way you look - it should be about improving your health and preventing illness.
"Imagine how much better it would be if we were proactive in making sure we are always in the best health.
"Fitness can be made very complicated by some professionals but it's not, it should be super simple.
"Eat food that isn't processed and be active. All it takes is a little time out of your week to give yourself a fighting chance at living a healthy and long life."
