Well the New Year is well and truly here, and it’s time to set ourselves new challenges, and one of the best ways to get rid of those Christmas excess is to get more exercise and while you think about that expensive gym membership why not think about one of the best and most pleasurable forms of exercise that won’t cost you a fortune, a simple walk.

You can walk your way to a better body, and here is some of the evidence from the latest research:

An hour of hiking, which is now classed as a ‘moderately intense exercise’ can burn between 250 and 500 calories depending on the terrain being covered.

Those who do this on a regular basis have been found to have lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and strokes

Carrying a backpack while walking makes it into a weight baring exercise and can increase bone density, which can help protect against osteoporosis.

Walking and hiking help to build muscle in the legs and core, which is essential for strength and stability.

Regular hiking can also aid better cardiorespiratory fitness as it actively promotes better breathing.

It can also boost mood and help cut symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety, and has also been found to help alleviate the effect of serious life events.

And remember children can experience many of the same benefits so this is an activity all of the family can enjoy

So check out the latest quality bargains we have for Regatta and other major brands on the website, or call in at our Macclesfield retail shop. We can kit you out with everything you require whether it is clothing, shoes or accessories and backed up with our knowledgeable staff and excellent customer service.