Commuting to work by train could lead to healthier life, scientists say
21 per cent of bus users hit the target whereas 52 per cent of train travellers got their daily 30 minutes of exercise
TRAVELLING by train to and from work could be the secret to a healthy life, scientists say.
More than half of rail commuters average about half an hour of exercise a day walking to and from the station.
That meets the Government’s daily exercise recommendation of 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, such as a brisk stroll.
One in five bus users also hits the target on their commute, the Imperial College London study found.
It said: “Our study found public transport use is an effective way to incorporate physical activity into daily life.”
The study used data from the English National Travel Survey 2010-2014 to measure the exercise train and bus users got during journeys. Bus passengers managed an average of 16 minutes and train users over 28.
About 21 per cent of bus users hit the 30-minute daily goal and 52 per cent of train travellers.
Anti-obesity campaigns are trying to increase levels of activity but the latest research suggests many workers can get their exercise quota without setting foot in a gym.