Life - Articles - Man's best friend at the heart of keeping the nation healthy

 The research found nearly a third (32%) of dog walkers exercise for at least half an hour every day, compared to just over a fifth (22%) of UK adults overall. Critically, nearly half (45%) of dog owners stated that the primary reason for walking their dog was to benefit their health as well as that of their furry friend, and more than a third (37%) say owning a pet has improved their overall health. 

  

 For those dog walkers that spend money on exercising on things such as gyms, exercise classes and equipment, more than half (55%) spend up to £60 a month, compared to only two in five (41%) UK adults.

  

 When it comes to different breeds, Labrador owners are the fittest overall with nearly two thirds (64%) stating they exercise regularly (more than 30 minutes a day), while Beagle owners are among the least active. Although Boxer owners don’t top the table for the healthiest dog owners, the research reveals they were the most likely to admit to exercising far more than they used to since owning their pet. When asked how their regime has changed since owning a pet, half (50%) admitted they now exercise far more than they used to.

 

 But while dogs are helping keep the nation healthy, a fifth (20%) of UK adults admit to not exercising at all and a third (33%) only exercise occasionally. Of those who say they don’t exercise, nearly half (49%) blame it on lack of enjoyment and a sixth (16%) say it’s because they simply don’t have the time.

  

 Neville Koopowitz, CEO of Vitality, said:

 “Man’s best friend not only provides companionship for their owners but also keeps them healthier too. We’ve seen mounting evidence that it’s the small things that make a big difference to our long term health, even if it’s simply walking your dog each day.

  

 “Our role is to support people to get healthier. Helping them appreciate the value of just a short walk is just the starting point, it’s all about changing attitudes. That’s why we believe in making exercise habitual and introducing it into existing routines. Together we can encourage the nation to stay fit, whether they own a dog or not!”

  

 Vitality has recently revamped how it incentivises healthy living, and in the process launched exciting rewards from major international brands British Airways and Starbucks, across its VitalityHealth and VitalityLife insurance lines. Vitality members can take advantage of benefits through Active Rewards, where members can unlock weekly rewards by exercising and tracking their results, and via Status Rewards, from which members can benefit by improving their Vitality Status over time.