So what is the success of a long, active and healthy life? Researchers now seem to have an answer that most of us believed in, with concrete evidence!
A recent study from the University of Sydney has shown that a fast-paced brisk walk can cut down the rate of early death by about 24%. The results were more pronounced in the elderly, emphasising on the fact that a regular brisk walking routine for the seniors, helped immensely.
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The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, was conducted over 50000 walkers from Britain, concluded that the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality, with a reduction of 24% walking at an average pace and 21% walking at a brisk or fast pace, compared to walking at a slow pace.
Other observations from this study include:
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- Average pace walkers aged 60 years or over experienced a 46% reduction in risk of death from cardiovascular causes, and fast walkers experienced a 53% reduction.
- Compared to slow walkers, brisk or fast walkers aged 45-59 had 36% lower risk of early death from any cause.
- It was observed that higher the physical exertion during walking, better the results.
So how fast should one walk to reap the benefits?
The lead author Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis maintains that a speed of over 5-7 kmph is acceptable, based on one’s health and fitness levels. He added that this style of walking improved one’s heart health and risk for premature mortality
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“Walking pace seems to be important,” the author says. “But first and foremost, we need to emphasize the value of walking of any intensity and pace.”
So what are you waiting for? Dust those walking shoes and plan your daily routine of good health- don’t wait for tomorrow. Start today!
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