As an 80-year-old, I can personally attest to the transformative power of daily step exercises recommended by a physiotherapist. These exercises not only strengthen leg muscles, relieving pressure on the knees, but also promote cardiovascular health. The benefits of stair climbing for fitness are truly remarkable (Embrace the climb! How stairs can super-charge your fitness in seconds, 10 October). I can’t help but wonder if the younger generation, who rely heavily on cars, electric bikes, and scooters, will be able to navigate stairs, let alone run, by the time they reach my age.
Rowan Roenisch
Leicester
It is rather surprising that Arnold Schwarzenegger, a prominent figure in the fitness world, would make a basic anatomical error. Schwarzenegger claims that calves are akin to the biceps of the legs (Arnold Schwarzenegger’s seven big life lessons, 9 October). However, the biceps muscle group is responsible for flexing the elbow, while the hamstrings are the true counterparts to the biceps, functioning primarily in knee flexion.
Noel Cameron
Emeritus professor of human biology, Loughborough University
In response to the growing trend of individuals seeking medical attention for minor ailments at A&E departments (Report, 10 October), one potential solution could be to have a senior doctor stationed at the front desk. This doctor would possess the necessary clinical knowledge and authority to redirect patients away from A&E services, thereby reducing the number of individuals accessing those facilities unnecessarily.
Michael Barlow
Manchester
Contrary to popular belief, comfrey fertiliser does not have to emit a strong odor. By simply avoiding the addition of water during the fertilisation process (Fall at your feet: five easy and affordable autumn gardening tasks, 6 October), it is possible to create a potent comfrey liquid that has a minimal smell. All that is required is to place the comfrey leaves in a bucket, weigh them down with a brick, and allow them to ferment for three to four weeks.
Sue Stephenson
Barrow upon Humber, Lincolnshire
I recall being informed that a key criterion for an activity to be classified as a sport (Letters, 10 October) is the mandatory use of specialized footwear. Hence, pursuits such as shooting, which can be performed in brogues or wellingtons, fall under the category of pastimes rather than sports.
Ian Maynard
Sheffield
During my school days, we were provided with regulation green knickers for the winter (Letters, 10 October), along with voluminous bloomers for the summer. In one memorable instance, a letter to parents advised them to ensure their daughters wore their summer knickers that week due to the presence of builders on scaffolding.
Trish Durrant
Bristol
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