In a recent episode of the mindbodygreen podcast, longevity physician Peter Attia, MD, discussed the importance of daily movement for health and longevity, calling exercise the way to a healthier heart.

This is also confirmed by research. One study found that just one or two moderate- or high-intensity activities per week can reduce the risk of death2 from cardiovascular disease (40%), cancer (18%) or something else (30%), compared to inactive individuals.

Of course, if your shoes put you at risk of injury, it can prevent you from performing even leisurely activities.

Slip-on shoes are designed to reduce the impact of the foot when it hits the ground, so cushioning is important, according to Kornfeld. It is reasonable to say that the shoes we use for running and walking can increase or decrease the stress on our feet, lower back and the rest of our body.

“The amount of cushioning or support you need in your shoe will depend on individual biomechanical factors, the type of surface you’re running on, and the amount of mileage per run,” Kornfeld adds.