“Walking was the thing that made a difference”

Stuart McKelvie explains how walking helped him lose weight and feel more positive

"I was diagnosed with asthma in 2000 and have been on various different types of medication over the years to manage the symptoms. Then two years ago I went for a health check through work and they said that my BMI (body mass index) was too high. I was 15 stone 6 at the time. The doctor said to me that if I lost a stone I would notice a real difference. He told me to open my front door and go for a 15-minute walk every day and it was brilliant advice."

Little and often

"I started off doing 15-minute gentle walks, then I was getting faster and going for a bit longer. I couldn't believe the difference it made. I found that walking would trigger the same positive mood I used to get after cycling in my younger days. My lungs felt as though they were working so much better and I felt lighter."

Why I love walking

"You don't need any equipment. It doesn't cost anything. It doesn't take up too much time. But it's amazing how a simple thing can make such a huge difference to how you're feeling."

Feeling healthier

"With my diet, I try to eat lots of fruit, vegetables and basic foods and avoid snacking in between meals. I've lost over a stone and when I went back to see my consultant he was amazed at how well I'm doing."

Last updated August 2015