If you want to reduce your risk of metabolic syndrome by 50%, pick up the pace rather than just increasing the time you spend walking. A study of over 10,000 people followed for over 10 years found that brisk walking and jogging significantly reduced their risk of developing metabolic syndrome, while those who walked at a leisurely pace for over an hour a day had no decrease in risk. The study concluded that the intensity of physical activity was important in granting the risk reduction.