Brisk Walking with Over 6.4 kmph Speed Linked to Lower Risk of Heart Rhythm Problems: Study
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Various forms of exercise, including brisk walking, have been touted for their numerous health benefits. A recent study conducted by the University of Glasgow has shed light on the potential benefits of brisk walking, specifically highlighting its link to a lower risk of heart rhythm problems.
The study, published in the European Heart Journal, analyzed data from over 420,000 participants in the UK Biobank, a large-scale biomedical database and research resource. The researchers found that brisk walking at a speed of over 6.4 kmph (approximately 4 mph) was associated with a 43% lower risk of all heart rhythm abnormalities compared to slow walking pace.
Heart rhythm problems, also known as arrhythmias, are abnormal heart rhythms that can be benign or life-threatening. They can cause symptoms such as palpitations, fluttering or racing heartbeat, dizziness, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, arrhythmias can lead to cardiac arrest or stroke.
The study’s findings are significant, as heart rhythm problems are a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), arrhythmias are the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm, and they are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.
The researchers used data from the UK Biobank, which included information on the participants’ physical activity levels, including walking pace. The participants were categorized into three groups based on their walking pace: slow (less than 3.5 kmph), moderate (3.5-6.4 kmph), and brisk (more than 6.4 kmph).
The study’s results showed that the brisk walking group had a significantly lower risk of heart rhythm problems compared to the slow walking group. The moderate walking group also had a lower risk, but the difference was not as pronounced as that seen in the brisk walking group.
The researchers controlled for various factors that could influence the results, including age, sex, body mass index, physical activity levels, and other health conditions. They also used advanced statistical methods to account for the complex relationships between the variables.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Mark Hamer, a researcher at the University of Glasgow, stressed the importance of regular physical activity, particularly brisk walking, for maintaining good cardiovascular health. “Our findings suggest that incorporating brisk walking into one’s daily routine could have a significant impact on reducing the risk of heart rhythm problems,” Dr. Hamer said.
The study’s results are consistent with previous research that has highlighted the benefits of physical activity for cardiovascular health. Physical activity has been shown to improve cardiovascular function, reduce blood pressure, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week. Brisk walking is an excellent way to achieve this, and the study’s findings suggest that it may be particularly beneficial for reducing the risk of heart rhythm problems.
In conclusion, the study’s findings provide strong evidence for the benefits of brisk walking for heart rhythm problems. The results suggest that incorporating brisk walking into one’s daily routine could have a significant impact on reducing the risk of these conditions. Regular physical activity, including brisk walking, is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and individuals of all ages can benefit from its numerous health benefits.
