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Slow-Walker?-Here's-Why-You-Need-to-Speed-Up!-The-Aartery-Chronicles-TAC
Slow-Walker?-Here's-Why-You-Need-to-Speed-Up!-The-Aartery-Chronicles-TAC

Slow Walker? Here's Why You Need to Speed Up!

A recent study published in Scientific Reports has found that a faster walking pace may play a significant role in reducing the risk of metabolic diseases in individuals with obesity. Researchers from Doshisha University in Japan conducted the study to explore how subjective walking speed—how individuals perceive their walking pace—affects the likelihood of developing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. The findings suggest that walking speed could serve as an easy and effective way to assess health risks, especially in obese individuals.

The Link Between Walking Speed and Health Risks

While walking speed is often seen as an indicator of mobility, it can also reflect overall health. Past research has linked slower walking speeds with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and increased mortality, particularly in older adults. This study, however, focused on the perception of walking speed and its connection to metabolic diseases in people with obesity.

Prof. Kojiro Ishii, one of the study’s authors, noted that individuals with obesity who reported walking faster were less likely to develop hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. He explained that the study showed individuals with obesity, who are typically at a higher risk for metabolic diseases, have a reduced likelihood of developing these conditions if they perceive themselves as walking faster.

Subjective Walking Speed: A Simple and Effective Measure

One key aspect of the study is the focus on subjective walking speed, which refers to how individuals perceive their walking pace compared to others. This contrasts with objective walking speed, which requires specific tests, equipment, and more time. The researchers highlighted that subjective walking speed is an easy and quick self-assessment that can be included in routine health checkups, making it a practical tool for public health initiatives.

Health Benefits of Walking Faster

The study also explored the potential benefits of walking at a faster pace. According to the researchers, those who walk faster may have better cardiorespiratory fitness, which is associated with lower levels of inflammation and oxidative stress—two key factors in the development of metabolic diseases. The research included over 25,000 individuals, with 8,578 participants having obesity, 9,626 individuals with high waist circumference, and 6,742 meeting both criteria. The results revealed that those who walked faster had a 30% lower risk of developing diabetes, as well as a reduced risk of hypertension and dyslipidemia.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Accountability

In conclusion, the study suggests that promoting a faster walking pace could be an effective strategy for preventing metabolic diseases, particularly in those with obesity. This simple behaviour could help improve overall health and reduce the risk of serious health conditions. As Dr. Ishii put it, “Encouraging individuals, especially those with obesity, to walk faster may be a helpful behaviour to adopt in preventing metabolic diseases.”

By focusing on an easily accessible and cost-effective measure like walking speed, healthcare professionals can provide individuals with a simple way to assess their health risks and take proactive steps toward better metabolic health.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources 

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.

Priya Bairagi

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