ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) – The health benefits of walking are now being looked at much more seriously. Studies show this form of exercise can improve your cardiovascular health, aid in weight management or weight loss – depending on how much you are walking, and can improve your mental and cognitive health as well.

It’s also interesting to note that the latest research published in Nature Cardiovascular Research indicates women may need less exercise than men to gain similar protection against coronary heart disease, in particular. Those findings are part of a new observational study of more than 85,000 adults in the United Kingdom who were followed for 7 years, as reported on by ABC News recently.

Dr. William Douglas of St. Peter’s Sports and Spine shared more on the pros and cons of treadmill walking versus walking outside and even weighed in on the latest trend – walking with a weighted vest. He also shared how many steps it takes to reap the health benefits. Check out today’s Women’s Health Wednesday.