Q I can’t afford an expensive gym membership, how can I stay healthy without spending a fortune?

May 12 2008 by Our Correspondent, Western Mail

A Walking is free, requires no specialist equipment, can be done by all ages and abilities and fits in any lifestyle. Walking briskly so that you feel warm and slightly out of breath will boost your activity and fitness levels thereby helping to lose weight, lower blood pressure, prevent and control diabetes, maintain good bone density, help with mood and mental capacity and it’s great for heart health.

Q I am quite an active person and go to the gym regularly, but now it is getting warmer I’d like to try more outdoor activities, what can you suggest?

A Make the most of weekends, Bank holidays and lighter evenings to go hiking in the countryside. Sign up and work towards a local fundraising event like Heart Research UK’s Three Peaks Challenge on June 21, where you can do one, two or all three peaks.Try Nordic walking – it’s a bit like cross-country skiing without skis and works both the lower and upper body. Once the technique is mastered, it can burn 20% more calories than normal walking and yet seems easier. Visit www.nordic-walking.co. uk to find a group near you.Walk to work in trainers so you can lengthen and speed up your stride, walk and talk instead of emailing and use your lunch break to clock up some steps. A pedometer will track your progress, challenge you to do more and keep you motivated. Grab a 15-minute walk at the end of the day to clear your mind once you get home.

Q I have just had a baby and want to lose some of the baby-weight. What can you suggest that won’t involve leaving my little girl for too long?

A You can exercise with her. Get the pushchair or baby carrier out and stride to the shops or around your neighbourhood. When she gets a little older, you can then walk her to and from school at a good pace and use the time to talk together.Learning to walk is a big event for toddlers and their families, but it soon becomes something we hardly think about. Making walking a more important part of our everyday life means taking positive steps towards a healthier heart and body.

For more information and advice about healthy living, contact Heart Research UK on 0113 234 7474 or email lifestyle@heartresearch.org.uk