Simple Exercise by Dr. Michael Mosley: Burn Fat and Boost Heart Health with Ease

Health expert Dr Michael Mosley has recommended an easy exercise for people looking to burn calories and increase their overall health. The well-known TV doctor says that Nordic walking, a pastime popularized in the 1990s, can help improve posture, reduce back pain, and boost mental health.

Nordic walking involves using poles and a special technique to engage more muscles and burn more calories than regular walking. Dr Mosley explained on his Just One Thing podcast that this form of exercise can lead to greater fitness and weight loss without the need to walk further or faster.

Studies have shown that Nordic walking can have significant health benefits. One Italian study found that participants who engaged in Nordic walking reported reductions in body fat after six months of regular walks. Another study with 80 people suffering from back pain showed that Nordic walking led to reductions in pain, increased strength, fitness, flexibility, and a 23% improvement in mental health.

Dr Jennifer Reed from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute praised Nordic walking for its ability to improve strength in the lower body, upper body, and heart muscles. She emphasized the simplicity of the technique and recommended starting with short walks to master it before increasing the duration.

The NHS website also recommends Nordic walking as an outdoor fitness activity that strengthens core muscles and provides an all-round workout. With its numerous health benefits and simplicity, Nordic walking is a great option for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being.