But most people who walk for exercise aren't getting the full fitness benefit from walking, according to a survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Only 6 percent of the people who get all their exercise from walking meet all of the Surgeon General's guidelines for fitness. To get the most from your walking program, you should walk for at least 30 minutes per session. You should walk at least four times a week. And you should exercise at a moderate intensity - about 3 and a half miles per hour of walking, a relatively brisk pace.
Most walkers do walk at least half an hour at a time, but fewer walk four or more times a week.
Only about a quarter of all walkers maintain a brisk pace. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say a little exercise is better than no exercise at all, so don't let these guidelines discourage you. Work gradually toward the guidelines, walking longer, faster and more often. Other Topics Health Watch is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.