While it’s not going to be as effective as pumping iron in the gym, walking can build muscle – at least when you first start doing it. Indeed, one study that looked at the impact of a 10-week walking programme on muscle quality and size in healthy older individuals recorded a clear increase after the programme ended.

“The steps can help with muscle strengthening, particularly in the lower body and core muscles,” Dr Vikram Murthy, NHS GP and co-founder of the Harley Street Murthy Clinic, previously told Strong Women. “This form of movement will help tighten, lift and tone your muscles. It’ll also help to push blood through all the vessels throughout the whole body, and to your muscles too, ensuring they are well perfused [have a good blood supply].”

Because our bodies are primed to adapt to these kinds of challenges, you’d need to find ways to keep challenging your body if you want to ensure you keep gaining muscle through walking. That might include wearing a weighted vest or tackling a steep incline.

7 benefits of walking for your body and mind, from better brain health to stronger bones