To answer this question, Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastava, a physician and senior consultant at Sharda Hospital - Delhi (India) will point out the best time to walk every day, especially when the air quality is poor.

Understanding Air Quality and Pollution

Traffic, weather and industrial activity with particulate matter, _NO2 and other pollutants in the air can pose serious health risks, especially to vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions, according to health news site Only My Health.

So, how should we walk to avoid the harmful effects of air pollution?

Studies have shown that exercise can reduce some of the negative effects of pollution. For example, a 2021 study published in the Journal of the National Institutes of Health found that exercising in a less polluted environment can significantly improve cardiovascular health. Another study published in another scientific journal, Science Direct, highlighted that exercising indoors on days with poor air quality is a safer option for maintaining health.

On days with polluted air, it's best to walk early in the morning or late at night, suggests Dr. Srivastava, according to Only My Health.

Smart walking tips in polluted areas

However, if you don't have time at the above times, be sure to check out the following suggestions:

1. Check the Air Quality Index (AQI). Dr. Srivastava suggests using apps or websites to monitor local air quality. Go for a walk when the AQI is good or moderate.

2. Choose your route wisely. Choose a route that is away from heavy traffic or industrial areas. Parks or roads with fresh air will help you reap the benefits of walking.

3. Timing is important. If morning pollution is a local concern, consider scheduling your walk later in the day when traffic starts to ease. You might choose to walk after work or after dinner, Dr. Srivastava recommends.

4. Pay attention to the weather. Windy days can help disperse pollutants, making outdoor walks less polluted. So prioritize walking when it's windy, suggests Dr. Srivastava.

Both morning and evening walks have their own benefits, but knowing the air quality can help you make informed health choices, concludes Dr. Srivastava.

So next time you go for a walk, consider not only the time of day but also the air you’re breathing. Prioritize your health by stepping outside when conditions are right to reap the many benefits of walking while avoiding pollution, according to Only My Health.