Walking has long been regarded as a simple and free activity that can boost our health – but a recent study has shown just how beneficial a brisk, daily walk can be for women.
There are currently, on average, 60,000 cases of heart disease a year in the UK. Symptoms include swelling, dizziness and other physical ailments that can affect one's ability to complete daily tasks.
However, a study has found that walking briskly, instead of at a gentle pace, could reduce the risk of suffering heart failure by a third in post-menopausal women.
The study, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, looked at more than 25,000 women aged 50 to 79.
The researchers tracked the participants health over 17 years and found that 1,455 of them developed heart failure, meaning their hearts were unable to pump blood around the body properly.
Prior to the investigation, those taking part in the study were asked to fill out a questionnaire on whether they walked casually, at the average speed of two to three miles-per-hour, or fast, at over three miles-per-hour.
As a result, the researchers were able to identify a pattern between walking and heart failure. They found that those who walked quickly were 34% less likely to develop heart failure compared to those who walked casually.
The study also found that post-menopausal women who walked at an average pace were 27% less likely to develop the condition regardless of their weight and alcohol consumption.
The best women's walking boots, from just £40
Dr Charles Eaton, senior author of the study from Brown University in the US, said it "confirms other studies demonstrating the importance of walking speed on mortality and other cardiovascular outcomes."
He added: "Given that limited time for exercise is frequently given as a barrier to regular physical activity, walking faster but for less time might provide similar health benefits to the recommended 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity."
If you're after Sealskinz waterproof socks, you'll probably know that they come highly rated by other outdoor lovers. These all weather waterproof socks keep your feet dry and comfortable during a wide range of temperatures, so whether you're heading out for autumn adventures or summer hikes, they've got you covered.
They provide the right balance of warmth, breathability and waterproof protection, plus with more four-way stretch than any waterproof sock on the market, you can enjoy a close fit and extreme comfort.
Want a pair of waterproof socks that will protect your feet in puddles, mud and snow? Sealskinz' Waterproof Cold Weather Mid Length Socks keep your feet protected, dry and warm in rain, snow, and mud, as well as through stream crossings and if you're standing in leaky waders.
They offer a good balance of warmth, breathability and waterproof protection. As wet feet can lead to all sorts of issues including cold and numb feet, blisters and frostbite, these are an excellent pair to have nearby when you're planning a cold weather adventure. And the flat seams along the toes are particularly useful for helping to prevent friction and blisters, making them ideal for all-day activities.
Made from 74% waterproof polyamide, these waterproof socks are ideal if you like a tight fit over a pair of cotton and wool socks that swell and retain water. They feature a plastic membrane with very small holes that are large enough to allow vapour to escape from the inside but small enough to stop water droplets getting in.
These waterproof socks, which come in two different colours, also offer COOLMAX CORE technology to transport moisture away from the body and keep your feet cool and dry. They offer all-weather protection, keeping your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
If you're after extra protection against water, then a pair of knee length waterproof socks are worth considering. These ones for men from Bridgedale are 100% waterproof and offer dense resilient Merino terry cushioning throughout.
They're ideal for outdoor activities in winter and one happy wearer said he wore them to go diving in almost-freezing water: "I got these to wear under a dry suit whilst diving in the UK. The water can go down to three degrees during winter so warm dry socks are a must."
SealSkinz Unisex's Waterproof Warm Weather Ankle Length Sock, Black, Large
These ankle length waterproof socks are ideal for warmer weather for those who encounter streams on their summer hikes. They can be worn with shorts and keep your feet dry, like other highly rated Sealskinz waterproof socks.
You'll also find a bamboo lining for comfortable wearing and moisture control, and they come with Sealskinz' lifetime waterproof promise. If you're looking for waterproof socks that are breathable and fit great, these are perfect for summer adventures.
These all-round waterproof socks from DexShell are for any outdoor activity, from biking to hiking. They use Dri-release Merino Wool liners for quick drying, moisture wicking and odour elimination technology, ensuring you stay comfortable while out and about.
The waterproof socks for men have a cushion terry loop footbed for extra comfort and the mid-length keeps your legs dry too. Satisfied customers have said that they might be pricey but the socks "do the job admirably".
These boot length waterproof socks comprise three layers and are primarily knit from merino wool, known for its anti-bacterial, anti-odour and moisture management properties. The outer layer sock is made from nylon and protects the Hydrotech waterproof breathable membrane against abrasion from the boot.
Meanwhile, the length makes this a best-seller, comfortably sitting above the ankle cuff of standard walking boots and covering the leg up to the mid-calf .
Designed to offer you more protection with their knee length, these Sealskinz waterproof socks are also extremely breathable. They have a premium merino wool interior for moisture control, insulation and comfort, plus the footbed padding reduces pressure and absorbs shock.
If your adventures take you through shallow water or deep snow, these longer waterproof socks are worth checking out. Fans of the socks say they're well "worth the money".
After a thin pair of waterproof socks? DexShell's Ultra Thin socks are made with eco-friendly modal and bamboo rayon yarns to provide optimum performance. The anti-odour and blister-free properties give warmth and dry comfort, and they offer plenty of breathability during warmer days.
For everyday socks that are soft, reliable and temperature regulating, these are an excellent option.
Offering unique Stretchdry fabric, these waterproof socks will not only keep water out, but are windproof and breathable too. Perfect for days where minimum insulation and maximum protection is required, these are a great choice for milder days.
The merino wool lining creates moisture control and adds comfort to ensure that your feet are always snug. Meanwhile, the flat seam and hand-linked toe closure prevents rubbing.
