Brief 'micro-walks' can lead to better health.
'Micro-walks' improve health by burning calories
A study has found that people used up to 60 per cent more energy by breaking down walks into 10-30 second stints compared to covering the same distance in a single swoop.
The experts say that routine physical activity such as getting up to make a cup of tea can make a significant difference to the amount of calories you burn.
The team at the University of Milan measured how much oxygen 10 participants consumed while walking on a treadmill or climbing stairs as the volunteers completed the activities for various lengths of time.
Dr. Francesco Luciano, leader of the study, said: "Breaking up sedentary time with brief strolls... can greatly increase energy expanded daily and improve health.
"We found that walking in shorter bouts requires more energy - and more oxygen - to cover the same distance, compared to covering it continuously. It's like a car using more fuel during the first few kilometres."