Walking, a simple yet powerful physical activity, has been highlighted in a recent study as a way to significantly extend lifespan. Conducted using data from the United States, the study reveals that increasing daily walking duration can offer substantial health benefits, particularly for individuals over 40.
Findings published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicate that individuals over 40 who engage in walking comparable to the top 25% of physically active people could extend their lifespan by at least five years. The study utilized a predictive model based on national health data, demonstrating that even an hour of walking per day can result in gaining approximately six additional hours of life.
The least active portion of the population stands to benefit the most, with significant reductions in the risk of noncommunicable diseases and premature death. Ryan Glatt, a senior brain health coach not involved in the study, emphasized that the mortality risk decreases notably with increased physical activity, particularly for those who are generally inactive.
The observational nature of the study draws from a life table of the 2019 U.S. population and other relevant health data. While the study’s authors caution against drawing direct cause-and-effect conclusions, the correlation between exercise and improved health outcomes aligns with existing knowledge.
Yale Medicine’s Christopher Schneble, another expert not involved in the research, supports these findings, noting that transitioning from a sedentary to a more active lifestyle yields meaningful reductions in mortality risk. Schneble explains that exercise improves cardiovascular health, bone density, and cognitive function while reducing body fat. Walking, accessible to most people, is an easy first step towards achieving these benefits.
Glatt points out that walking differs from more intense forms of exercise like running or weight training by being low-intensity and accessible, making it particularly beneficial for previously inactive individuals. Walking offers significant life expectancy benefits without the barriers associated with intense workouts.
Moreover, there is no upper age limit to start benefiting from walking. Glatt asserts that even starting later in life can lead to improvements in health and longevity, especially for those with previously inactive lifestyles. However, pre-existing health conditions may influence the extent of benefits. Schneble adds that maintaining fitness as one ages protects against the inevitable risks related to aging.
In essence, engaging in regular physical activity, such as daily walks, not only improves various health factors but also acts as a safeguard against age-related health challenges.
The research underscores the vital role of physical activity, particularly walking, in enhancing longevity and overall health. While the study’s findings are based on extensive data analysis, they reinforce the well-established health benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle. Incorporating regular walks into daily routines can serve as an attainable strategy to improve life expectancy and quality of life, regardless of age or prior activity levels.
Source: Medicalnewstoday
