A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has highlighted the health benefits of brisk walking among low-income and Black individuals, a group that has often been underrepresented in public health research. The analysis, conducted on 79,856 participants from 12 southeastern US states, found that fast walking for as little as 15 minutes a day can significantly reduce total mortality by nearly 20%.
Researchers investigated the impact of walking pace on mortality and found that brisk walking was associated with reduced mortality rates across all causes of death. The benefits were most pronounced for cardiovascular diseases, which include conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
The study’s lead investigator, Wei Zheng, says that fast walking can have a significant impact on overall health, particularly in communities that face economic constraints and limited access to safe walking spaces. However, the researchers also emphasize that the benefits of brisk walking are independent of other lifestyle factors, making it an accessible activity for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
The study’s findings suggest that public health campaigns and community-based programs can play a crucial role in promoting fast walking as a way to improve health outcomes. The researchers recommend incorporating more intense physical activity into daily routines, such as brisk walking or other forms of aerobic exercise.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/just-15-minutes-of-fast-walking-a-day-could-save-your-life-new-study-finds