Research indicates that individuals who walk quickly are less likely to suffer from heart failure compared to those who walk at a slower pace. Scientists at Brown University in Rhode Island monitored the health of 25,000 women over the age of 50, who self-reported their walking speed.
Women who claimed to walk at a "moderate" pace, between 2-3 miles per hour, were 27% less likely to develop heart failure compared to those who walked at a normal pace. Women with a faster walking pace, over 3 miles per hour, faced a 34% lower risk of heart failure.
The researchers suggested that individuals who walk faster may be more fit and benefit more from cardiovascular health, thus reducing their risks. Dr. Charles Eaton, head of the research team, stated that the findings show walking speed is an indicator of heart health. Eaton added that the study could help identify individuals at risk of heart failure by measuring walking pace.
According to the researchers, approximately 4% of individuals aged 60 to 80, and 11% of those over 80 years old, suffer from heart failure, as reported by the Daily Mail.
