Walking as a Prevention for Heart and Brain Health. Specialists Urge More Movement
Specialists highlight the importance of regular physical activity for heart and brain health, warning of a sedentary epidemic.
A significant portion of the population spends their daily life sitting, leading to what the World Health Organization describes as an epidemic of inactivity. Health experts stress that movement is fundamental to health, linking regular physical activity to the strengthening of the cardiovascular system as well as promoting cognitive health. Jānis Vētra explains that walking at an average intensity for at least 30 minutes a day, amounting to approximately 8000 to 10,000 steps, is crucial for every individual.
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the popularity of micro-mobility tools, particularly scooters, which could potentially decrease daily physical activity levels. Vētra points out that these means of transport may replace walking, thus reducing the time people spend being physically active. This shift raises concerns about the long-term impacts on public health, given the already declining levels of exercise among the population.
The call to action by health specialists highlights an urgent need for society to integrate more physical activity into daily routines. By emphasizing the benefits of walking and other forms of exercise, experts aim to combat the rising health risks associated with sedentary lifestyles and encourage individuals to make small, manageable changes to enhance their overall well-being.