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Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Does gardening really 'count' as exercise? Physiotherapist explains
Gardening can burn many calories, but is it as good for you as heading to the gym? Green-thumbed enthusiasts know that gardening can be exhausting. Whether you're digging flowerbeds or raking leaves, it's likely you'll burn some calories along the way. But have you ever wondered whether gardening is intense enough to be deemed a real workout? You may be surprised to know that one expert believes it can be, but it may depend on the kind of chores you undertake. Kieran Sheridan, a UAE-based physiotherapist, previously told the Mirror:"According to CDC, you can burn about 300 calories with just 45 minutes of gardening. "Planting and potting for an hour can also burn 200-300 calories. It targets a lot of muscle groups because of all the strenuous physical activity - such as planting, watering, even digging and lifting fertiliser bags." To put it into perspective, someone weighing around 10 stone would typically use up about 260 calories per hour walking at a brisk pace of 3.5mph on a treadmill, according to Very Well Fit. Increase the speed to 6mph, and the calorie expenditure shoots up to 680 per hour. Kieran points out that, similar to walking, gardening engages various muscle groups across the body, including the arms, buttocks, abdomen, back, and legs. Digging is likely the most calorie-intensive task, as the act of driving a spade into the ground works many of these muscles at once, he claimed. "It's also required to stretch first to build your strength before gardening and also to avoid cramps and overworking the muscles after gardening," Kieran continued at the time. "These gardening tasks also help burn calories just like a simple exercise would do. "I advise mixing things up when gardening. You can't do one task alone because it could strain your muscles. For example, just planting and carrying bags of mulch will be physically straining, which can lead to injuries and body pain. I'd suggest doing other tasks such as pulling weeds and raking." Beyond burning calories and building strength, exercising can have various other benefits. A recent study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology especially emphasised this, shedding light on how physical health can affect brain ageing. Despite existing guidelines advising 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week, experts claimed that even minimal amounts can have a positive impact on brain health. These results come at a time when over 944,000 people in the UK have dementia. In light of such trends, Dr Alexis Missick, a GP at UK Meds, also told the Mirror: "Gardening activities such as digging count are beneficial forms of exercise as they help build our strength. Like other forms of exercise such as brisk walking, studies have found that daily gardening can reduce the risk of dementia. "Getting yourself moving around more by gardening can promote cardiovascular health and helps to reduce your risk of coronary heart disease (CHD),and keep your blood pressure at a healthy level."
The Herald Scotland
12-07-2025
- The Herald Scotland
Can cruises sail with zero-emissions? Norway will put it to the test
The Berkley, Massachusetts, resident joined her mother on a cruise through Norway's fjords - as well as a stop in Belgium - after her father unexpectedly passed away. Correia, who owns a liquor promotions company and makes travel content on TikTok, has taken cruises before, including to see glaciers in Alaska, but found the Norwegian voyage "was almost like the Alaskan cruise on steroids." "It was just so much more (grand)," she said. Norway is taking steps to keep it that way. The country will enact new zero-emissions requirements for passenger ships beginning in 2026, aimed at reducing the vessels' environmental impact and potentially providing a model for more sustainable cruise tourism. That could have an impact on cruisers' travel plans, too. What are Norway's zero-emissions requirements? The zero-emissions requirements will apply to the West Norwegian Fjords, Geirangerfjord and Naer?yfjord, among the longest and deepest fjords in the world. The sites were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005. The rule requires that "energy sources used must not result in direct emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) or methane (CH4)," according to a policy document from the Norwegian Maritime Authority. "Fuels that generate direct emissions of greenhouse gases may be used to the extent necessary to ignite the energy sources. If nitrous oxide (N2O) is generated through the use of energy sources that meet the zero-emission requirement, the vessel shall use the best available technology to reduce such emissions." Passenger ships will also be required to plug into shore power where available. The rules will apply to passenger vessels under 10,000 gross tonnage starting on Jan. 1, 2026, and those 10,000 gross tonnage or more on Jan. 1, 2032 (the changes were originally set to take effect for all ships in 2026 but were delayed for larger vessels). How will the zero-emissions requirements help the environment? Helene Muri, an adjunct senior researcher at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology's Department of Energy and Process Engineering, said that large ships in particular have "been increasingly affecting these beautiful fjords." CO2 emissions contribute to global warming, for starters. And while other regulations in the fjords have cut down on air pollution from sulfur, others, such as ozone formed as a result of nitrogen oxide emissions - which is a pollutant when it appears near the ground - can cause respiratory problems in humans and impact crops and other plants. "Within these fjords, you have these kinds of narrow gateways, usually, with very steep mountains diving down into the fjords," said Muri, who is also a senior scientist at NILU, an independent climate and environmental research institute. "So, the emissions from the ships tend to get kind of trapped within the fjords, so the air quality will be polluted, as well." Noise from the ships can also disturb wildlife, and the vessels - especially larger ones - have been criticized for "visual pollution," according to Muri. "It's the same kind of argument sometimes against wind turbines," she said. "Like, it doesn't look so nice in the serene and beautiful nature." Some cruise operators may have an easier time complying than others. Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages, for example, already have battery-hybrid-powered ships. While the industry is aggressively exploring alternative fuels, though, those are not yet widely available. Small passenger ships that cannot meet the requirements in time may be eligible for temporary exemptions from the Norwegian Maritime Authority, and larger vessels have years to adapt their technology. "Nevertheless, many cruise companies have reported that they anticipate significant challenges in complying with the regulations once they take effect," the policy document reads. Cruise Lines International Association, the industry's leading trade organization, told USA TODAY that the "transition is intended to be gradual, recognizing that technology for larger ships is still under development." Nearly every cruise ship operating in Norway can use renewable, low-carbon fuel, according to CLIA; however, these are not yet accessible at the necessary scale. "Rapid decarbonization of cruise and maritime transport is possible with the right investment in place," the organization said in an email. "Cruise lines are pursuing net-zero emissions by 2050, and such initiatives signal the industry's commitment to be an active partner in the development of sustainable tourism." Helga Maria Sulen Sund, Senior Communications Advisor with the Norwegian Maritime Authority, said it did not have data on how many ships operate in Norway annually. Can we have eco-friendly cruising?: What to know about zero-emission ships. Norway cruise tips A wide range of operators sail in Norway, from mainstream cruise lines carrying thousands of guests at a time, such as Celebrity and Princess Cruises, to smaller expedition operators like National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions and HX. Cruises departing from Norway typically leave from Oslo or Bergen, according to Kristin Winkaffe, a luxury travel designer and founder of Winkaffe Global Travel. Many itineraries that visit the Scandinavian country also sail from Southampton, England. Cruises typically operate there between May and September - though some ships still sail coastal routes during other times - and can be a particularly nice way to see the country. "It's just otherworldly nature," Winkaffe said. "You have really cool opportunities for a lot of great off-the-beaten-path experiences. There's a lot of really, really tiny towns and villages that you can get to when you're doing a cruise, as opposed to a land itinerary." She warned that passengers could see changes to their itineraries due to the new regulations, but cruise lines' customer service departments should be able to address questions about that. "And if they're not prepared to answer those questions, then that's kind of an answer in and of itself," Winkaffe added. Muri acknowledged that achieving zero emissions on cruise ships remains "a work in progress." "These kinds of laws and regulations are really a step in the right direction, and I really hope that cruise operators will now really make an effort to do something about their emissions," she said. Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@
New York Post
20-06-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Walking this much a day can lower your risk of lower back pain by 23%
Here's another reason to stop scrolling and start strolling. A new study found that walking every day can significantly reduce your risk of lower back pain, which is a major drain on wallets, well-being and workdays across the US. But there's a catch: how far you go and how fast you move makes all the difference in how much protection you'll actually get. Advertisement 3 Chronic back pain is a leading cause of disability in the US. fizkes – Scientists at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology analyzed data from more than 11,000 adults over the age of 20 who had no history of chronic back pain at the start of the study. Each participant wore an activity tracker for a week, logging how long and how briskly they walked. Researchers then followed up over four years to see who developed lower back pain. Advertisement By the end, the results were clear: 'The more steps the participants took, the less frequently they experienced back pain,' the study authors wrote. Those who walked between 78 and 100 minutes a day lowered their odds by 13%. For people who clocked over 100 minutes daily, the risk dropped by a whopping 23%. But it wasn't just about putting in time. Pace mattered, too. 3 Walking has been linked to a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. Prostock-studio – Advertisement Researchers found that participants who walked faster reduced their risk of developing lower back pain by 15% to 18% compared to slower walkers. Still, total time on your feet made the biggest difference. The lowest chances were seen in people who walked more and picked up the pace. 'This is an important finding because walking is a simple, low cost, and accessible activity that can be promoted widely to reduce the burden of low back pain,' Rayane Haddadj, lead author of the study, told CNN. 3 Chronic back pain is persistent for at least 12 consecutive weeks. amnaj – Advertisement Back pain is one of the top reasons Americans go to the doctor. Roughly 65 million Americans have had a recent flare up, and about 16 million suffer from chronic symptoms that interfere with their daily lives, according to Georgetown University's Health Policy Institute. Common causes include arthritis, herniated discs and injuries. Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity and lack of physical activity also increase the risk. The ripple effects are serious. Back pain is a leading cause of disability and missed workdays in the US — and it takes a major toll on overall health. One in four sufferers say they're in poor physical condition, more than double the rate of their pain-free peers. But it's not just physical. Chronic back pain also affects people's social lives, relationships, and ability to enjoy everyday activities. Nearly three-quarters of adults with back pain report feeling sad, worthless or hopeless — and they're far more likely to battle depression, anger and stress than those without. Advertisement The price tag isn't small, either. Back pain is the sixth most expensive condition in the country, costing the US more than $12 billion a year in medical bills and lost productivity.
Economic Times
16-06-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Walking can relieve your lower back pain, study reveals. But there is a catch
Walking can ease chronic lower back pain—but only if you hit the right time target. A Norwegian study tracking over 11,000 adults found those walking more than 100 minutes daily significantly lowered their risk. The research emphasizes consistency over speed, highlighting walking as a powerful, preventive tool in managing an increasingly common modern-day health concern. A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that walking at least 100 minutes a day can reduce the risk of chronic lower back pain by up to 24%. Researchers found duration mattered more than intensity. (Image: iStock) Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The golden threshold: 100+ minutes a day While walking may help prevent chronic back pain, experts warn it's no miracle cure — and certainly not a substitute for professional care when symptoms worsen. (Image :iStock) Back pain: A silent epidemic Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads When walking isn't enough: Know the red flags Are treatments failing us? If you've ever been sidelined by that nagging lower back pain, here's some hope that doesn't involve endless pills, pricey physiotherapy sessions, or complicated yoga routines. According to a groundbreaking study published in JAMA Network Open, the humble act of walking — yes, just walking — could significantly reduce your risk of developing chronic lower back pain. But there's a catch: it's not just about walking more, it's about walking from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology tracked over 11,000 adults for four years using wearable tech to record their daily walking time and intensity. They discovered that those who walked between 101 and 124 minutes per day had a 23% lower risk of developing chronic lower back pain. Pushing that to 125 minutes or more brought the risk down by 24%.Surprisingly, how fast or how vigorously people walked mattered far less than simply how long they walked. In other words, it's not about breaking a sweat — it's about staying consistent and crossing that daily threshold.'These findings indicate that public health strategies promoting walking may help reduce the burden of chronic low back pain,' the study authors wrote, signalling a call for preventive action in daily routines rather than reactive back pain is no minor inconvenience — it's one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. While it typically begins in older adults due to natural spinal wear and tear, it doesn't spare the young. Sedentary lifestyles, physically demanding jobs, poor posture, and improper lifting techniques contribute heavily, turning back pain into a widespread modern-day to NHS guidelines, pain that persists for over three months qualifies as chronic and often disrupts everyday activities like bending, lifting, or even standing. Physiotherapist Sammy Margo previously told The Sun that most back pain arises from strain on muscles or ligaments, caused by factors as basic as poor posture or lack of walking may help prevent chronic back pain, experts warn it's no miracle cure — and certainly not a substitute for professional care when symptoms worsen. If your back pain is sharp, radiates to other parts of your body, or is accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, it could indicate something more serious — even a heart attack. Immediate medical help should be pain with sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the genitals or buttocks, or persistent issues in men such as blood in urine and difficulty urinating could point to conditions like cauda equina syndrome or prostate cancer. In such cases, delay could be revelation about walking comes on the heels of another 2024 Australian study that found nine out of ten back pain treatments don't really work. That adds to the frustration of millions who try anti-inflammatory drugs, heat packs, and stretching, only to find little relief. The new research on walking thus feels like a back-to-basics revolution — you're looking for a natural, low-cost way to protect your spine, the solution may be as simple as lacing up your shoes and heading out for a brisk walk — for at least 100 minutes a day. While it won't cure every back issue, it's a proactive, science-backed step toward long-term relief. Just remember, it's not about the speed. It's about staying on your feet, moving steadily, and giving your back the support it needs — one step at a time.
Time of India
16-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Walking can relieve your lower back pain, study reveals. But there is a catch
If you've ever been sidelined by that nagging lower back pain, here's some hope that doesn't involve endless pills, pricey physiotherapy sessions, or complicated yoga routines. According to a groundbreaking study published in JAMA Network Open , the humble act of walking — yes, just walking — could significantly reduce your risk of developing chronic lower back pain. But there's a catch: it's not just about walking more, it's about walking enough. The golden threshold: 100+ minutes a day Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology tracked over 11,000 adults for four years using wearable tech to record their daily walking time and intensity. They discovered that those who walked between 101 and 124 minutes per day had a 23% lower risk of developing chronic lower back pain. Pushing that to 125 minutes or more brought the risk down by 24%. Surprisingly, how fast or how vigorously people walked mattered far less than simply how long they walked. In other words, it's not about breaking a sweat — it's about staying consistent and crossing that daily threshold. 'These findings indicate that public health strategies promoting walking may help reduce the burden of chronic low back pain,' the study authors wrote, signalling a call for preventive action in daily routines rather than reactive treatments. iStock While walking may help prevent chronic back pain, experts warn it's no miracle cure — and certainly not a substitute for professional care when symptoms worsen. (Image :iStock) Back pain: A silent epidemic Lower back pain is no minor inconvenience — it's one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. While it typically begins in older adults due to natural spinal wear and tear, it doesn't spare the young. Sedentary lifestyles, physically demanding jobs, poor posture, and improper lifting techniques contribute heavily, turning back pain into a widespread modern-day affliction. You Might Also Like: Is your screen time destroying your spine? 'Tech neck' is the modern ailment you didn't know you had According to NHS guidelines, pain that persists for over three months qualifies as chronic and often disrupts everyday activities like bending, lifting, or even standing. Physiotherapist Sammy Margo previously told The Sun that most back pain arises from strain on muscles or ligaments, caused by factors as basic as poor posture or lack of movement. When walking isn't enough: Know the red flags While walking may help prevent chronic back pain, experts warn it's no miracle cure — and certainly not a substitute for professional care when symptoms worsen. If your back pain is sharp, radiates to other parts of your body, or is accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, it could indicate something more serious — even a heart attack. Immediate medical help should be sought. Back pain with sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the genitals or buttocks, or persistent issues in men such as blood in urine and difficulty urinating could point to conditions like cauda equina syndrome or prostate cancer. In such cases, delay could be dangerous. Are treatments failing us? This revelation about walking comes on the heels of another 2024 Australian study that found nine out of ten back pain treatments don't really work. That adds to the frustration of millions who try anti-inflammatory drugs, heat packs, and stretching, only to find little relief. The new research on walking thus feels like a back-to-basics revolution — literally. You Might Also Like: Can you cure back pain using mind hacks? Scientists say they are better than pills If you're looking for a natural, low-cost way to protect your spine, the solution may be as simple as lacing up your shoes and heading out for a brisk walk — for at least 100 minutes a day. While it won't cure every back issue, it's a proactive, science-backed step toward long-term relief. Just remember, it's not about the speed. It's about staying on your feet, moving steadily, and giving your back the support it needs — one step at a time.
