Researchers using accelerometers have found that just taking one extra minute of brisk exercise every day could make almost half a pound of different to your weight by the end of the year! Even brief bursts of intense physical activity help to protect against weight gain. These findings suggest that every minute of walking briskly, climbing stairs carrying heavy bags, or running for the bus can bring significant wellness benefits. According to the ‘American Journal of Health Promotion’, each daily minute of intense exercise can reduce your risk of obesity by 5% for women and 2% for men. So, if you find it difficult to fit exercise into your day, start running up the stairs rather than taking the lift, walk briskly rather than dawdling, and focus on the intensity of your activity rather than its duration.