Walking is easily the most popular form of exercise and has gained new respect as a way to improve physical fitness. It has been widely practiced as a recreational and fitness activity throughout recorded history. Classical and early English literature seems to have been written by men who were avid walkers, and Emerson and Thoreau carried on the tradition in America. Among American presidents, the most famous walkers were Jefferson, Lincoln, and Truman.

Walking is the only exercise in which the rate of participation does not decline in the middle and later years. In a national survey, the highest percentage of regular walkers (almost 40%) were men 65 years of age and older.

Studies show that, when done briskly on a regular schedule, walking can improve the body's ability to consume oxygen during exertion, lower the resting heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and increase the efficiency of the heart and lungs. It also helps to burn excess calories. We'll look at that aspect of walking in greater detail next week.

Related information Lifestyle changes: Exercise | Manage weight: Activity