I’m a runner, and what you might call an exercise maximalist. But neither of these things precludes my admitting the salutary effects of small amounts of exercise incorporated into a daily routine, as I made clear last week.

In this spirit, I recommend checking out the U.K. Telegraph’s recent compendium of research on the health benefits of walking. Short (five-to-ten minute) but frequent (daily) strolls can bring a whole host of pleasant byproducts, including but not limited to:

• Decreased risk of bowel cancer

• Lower blood pressure and minimized incidence of cardiovascular disease

• Reduced risk of Type-2 diabetes

• Halving the risk of dementia

The Telegraph also found research suggesting that such activity can extend lifespans, though this seems an obvious implication from the other effects. Take note: “The life prolonging benefits were even better if the walk lasted 30 minutes.”

It’s a good start. So why not 30 minutes of running? Or 60. Or 90 . . .