Women older than 50 who regularly take brisk walks have fewer colds, according to a U.S. study. Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle found that a group of older women who did moderate exercise - generally brisk walking - had half the risk of catching a cold compared to a group that did not exercise. The women who exercised did it regularly, 45 minutes a day five days a week.

So not only does walking benefit weight loss and overall health but it can improve your chances of avoiding the common cold. No matter what age you are, make walking part of your exercise regime.