Public Health England is urging over 40’s to walk faster in a bid to tackle rising levels of inactivity.

Officials from the body are encouraging middle-aged people to start walking more frequently to boost activity levels. Statistics show that people over the age of 40 are doing less exercise than ever and this could result in an elevated risk of health complications. Inactivity is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.

In response to the findings of research projects, Public Health England has advised over 40’s to take a brisk walk once a day. Just 10 minutes of moderate exercise per day can have an impact, with the risk of premature death reduced by 15 percent.

Public Health England estimates that around 40 percent of people aged 40-60 don’t even take a brisk 10-minute walk once a month, let alone once a day and officials are keen to highlight the potential risk of inactivity and encourage middle-aged people to move more. It is estimated that we are 20 percent less active than we were in the 1960’s.

In a bid to increase activity levels, Public Health England is encouraging people to download a new app, Active 10, which tracks activity levels and gives you advice about how to fit more activity into your average day.

Dr Jenny Harries, the deputy medical director at Public Health England, said that it can be difficult to incorporate daily exercise into your schedule, but making simple changes to your lifestyle can boost your health. Walking to the shops rather than taking the car out or stretching your legs on your lunch break could make all the difference.