Is walking a miracle cure?

This report calls on the Government to put walking at the forefront of public health, including an increase in ‘social prescribing’.Published by the charity Living Streets, the report says more GPs should prescribe walking to improve mental health and long-term physical health conditions.

Emphasis should be given to walking in parks and green spaces because of ‘growing evidence of how it improves mental health outcomes’, according to the report.

The report also calls on the Government to launch a ‘major public information campaign’ promoting physical activity, homing in on walking as the ‘easiest and most likely way to raise activity levels’.

It says all new housing developments should ensure services, leisure and employment opportunities are within walking distance – prioritising low traffic neighbourhoods to increase walking and cycling rates.