How increasing your steps and walking more can help you to live longer

Intense fitness routines can be daunting, but simply going for a walk can significantly improve your health. Upping your daily steps will quickly make a difference and put you on the path to a longer life

Walking is convenient, free, and effective. One study of over-40s showed that taking at least 7,000 daily steps resulted in a 50% lower risk of premature death. Picture: iStock

If the new year resolve is waning and you are already getting bored of the gym, it is worth considering an alternative option for improving fitness and health that is convenient, effective, and costs nothing: walking.

Dozens of studies have shown that amassing more daily steps — in Ireland, the current average is around 4,961 — can help to lower blood sugar, cholesterol and levels and even lengthen our lifespan.