Higher daily step counts were linked to fewer depressive symptoms and a lower risk for depression in a new meta-analysis.

Walking daily does the mind and body good.

Discover how much you should walk daily based on your age. Learn ideal step counts and health benefits for every stage of life.

The NHS in England is set to introduce a groundbreaking initiative to encourage physical activity by rewarding individuals who commit to walking 30 minutes daily. Starting early next year, the 'marathon a month' challenge will ask participants to walk approximately 26 miles per month, equivalent to a marathon distance. Those who consistently meet the daily goal will be eligible for incentives such as discounts and rewards, aiming to make exercise more accessible and motivating. The program, developed in partnership with Olympic medallist Sir Brendan Foster, seeks to address the issue of physical inactivity, which contributes to one in six deaths. The initiative aligns with the NHS's 10-year health plan and aims to engage over 100,000 people, leveraging 'streak' culture to foster long-term participation. While some participants find the gamified approach motivating, others emphasize the need for tangible rewards like free goods. The scheme also highlights the potential health benefits, including extending healthy life expectancy by up to four years for those who walk regularly. Critics stress the importance of combining such initiatives with broader public health measures to ensure lasting impact.