Walking is often touted as a low-impact activity that’s good for overall health. It breaks up sedentary time, is free to do, and can help manage heart health, weight, and diabetes risk. However, your walking speed may also be an important indicator of your health.
According to Dr. Marie Therese Kanagie-McAleese, a physician at the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Medical Center, vital signs provide information on the body’s physiologic functioning. Your walking speed can offer a snapshot of your overall health and potentially identify issues.
Studies have shown that slower walking speeds are often associated with poorer physical condition, cognitive impairment, and other health problems.
Increasing your walking speed through exercise or weight loss can lead to longer-term benefits on your health. Dr. Giuffrida emphasizes the importance of incorporating regular walks into daily routines.
To get started, aim for at least 4,000-7,000 steps a day, broken up into shorter brisk walks throughout the day. You can also incorporate other types of walking, such as interval walking, mindful walking, hiking, or Nordic walking, to engage your muscles and improve overall health.
By paying attention to your walking speed and incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine, you may be able to reveal more about your health status and potentially improve it over time.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/what-your-walking-speed-can-tell-you-about-your-health-100016806.html