We have footpaths in our neighbourhood. None are usable. 

My daughter could technically walk to her school along the beach. But between the weather and the risks to a girl walking along the beach everyday, it’s not going to happen. 

We can’t just walk down to the local shop to pick up groceries. There are no spaces to walk comfortably or safely. 

And you will be soaking wet and covered in dust if you choose to walk more than 5 mins to reach your workplace. 

While I am supposed to espouse the value of walking to places or cycling to places as part of your everyday life, it’s not possible. Between the traffic, safety hazards and weather, an active lifestyle as an organic part of your day is not going to happen. Atleast outside of completely gated communities. 

This is the context for needing to chunk 40-45 minutes a day for walking, cycling or some steady activity. It’s probably going to be on a terrace, on a cycle/bike/stepper or as part of a group. Your heart needs it. It’s a useful capacity as you age. And more importantly, the energy spent as a habit pays off like compound interest.