Where You Live Matters

Health Tips / Where You Live Matters

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Regular readers know that I’m fond of studies that confirm what seems to be obvious, intellectually or intuitively. Here’s one to get you walking.

Researchers writing in the American Journal of Health Promotion found that people who live in the most pedestrian-friendly sections of New York City have less body fat, as reflected in a lower body mass index.

The lead author of the study, Andrew Rundle, says a combination of commercial property and residences places people within walking distance of the shops they need to live. He’s quoted as saying “You’re not going to get off the couch to walk to the corner store if there’s no corner store to walk to.”

The more you can put this idea into practice, the more your body will thank you, with increased flexibility and stamina, and stronger bones too, in addition to that leaner profile.

If you live in an area that’s mainly car-friendly, apply the walking-more concept the next time you’re out shopping, commuting, or making your way through an airport. Revel in getting a parking spot farthest from the mall doors. Take the stairs instead of the escalator. Get off the bus early. Walk on the airport floor, not on the people-mover.

It all adds up.