London, England – A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Glasgow in the UK suggests that walking at a brisk pace may help reduce the risk of various heart rhythm problems. The study, published in BMJ Heart, looked at data from over 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank, with a focus on their walking speed and the development of heart rhythm abnormalities over a 13-year period.
The study categorized walking speeds as slow (less than 3mph), average (3-4mph), or brisk (more than 4mph). Participants who reported walking at an average or brisk pace were found to have a significantly lower risk of developing heart rhythm abnormalities compared to those who walked at a slower pace. In fact, individuals who walked at a brisk pace had a 43% lower risk of these issues.
Heart rhythm problems, such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias, can have serious health implications if left untreated, including an increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and cardiac arrest. The researchers noted that faster walking speeds were associated with factors like reduced obesity and inflammation, which in turn may contribute to the lower risk of heart rhythm abnormalities in brisk walkers.
While the study was limited by its observational nature and the demographics of the participants, which skewed towards older white individuals, the findings provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of incorporating brisk walking into daily routines. The researchers emphasized the importance of further research to better understand the mechanisms behind the link between walking pace and heart health.
Overall, the study highlights the potential impact of simple lifestyle changes, such as increasing walking speed, on reducing the risk of heart rhythm abnormalities. As more research is conducted in this area, individuals may be encouraged to prioritize physical activity, like brisk walking, as a means of improving cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart-related conditions.