A Harvard Medical School study has found that women who walk at least three hours a week reduce their risk of a heart attack by 30-40 per cent.

Those who walk five or more hours a week reduce their risk by 50 per cent. To increase your odds of walking regularly, walk with friend, with a dog or with music. Go exploring around your neighbourhood and beyond.

Once you're in a routine, you'll have much more energy and wonder how you managed without it, and you might even inspire someone else who needs encouragement.