Not Just Fitness: Your Walking Speed May Reveal Your Health Status

A new study published in JAMA Network Open has found a link between walking speed and life expectancy. Researchers followed over 4,000 older adults in the UK for 12 years. Those who walked at a faster pace tended to live longer, even after adjusting for health and lifestyle factors. However, the study found a statistical association, not proof of causation.

A new study published in JAMA Network Open has found a link between walking speed and life expectancy. Researchers followed over 4,000 older adults in the UK for nearly 12 years, with an average age of 69. Participants completed a short walking test at their usual pace and wore activity trackers for nine days. Analysis of the data revealed that people who walked at a faster pace tended to live longer, even after accounting for additional health and lifestyle factors. Experts refer to walking speed as the "sixth vital sign" of the body, as it provides a snapshot of overall physical function. A sudden decrease in walking speed may indicate a decline in the function of one of the body's systems. However, the study found only a statistical association and does not prove that increasing walking speed alone extends life. The study participants were in better health than the average population.