A new programme has been launched in Kent to try to find out the effects of brisk and regular walking on children’s health and obesity levels.

In the study being conducted by Canterbury Christ Church University, children from local primary schools will walk around playing fields twice a day, three times a week, for 15 weeks.

Pupils were weighed and measured at the start of the experiment using a Bod Pod, a device which measures body fat levels when the child sits in it.

The project also involves a comparison group, not taking part in the walks. Researcher Paul Ford said: “Brisk walking is a rhythmic, aerobic activity and short bouts can result in high adherence levels.”

Photograph: A Bod Pod will be used to measure body fat levels