Walking intensity and slow living offer health benefits

New research suggests that the intensity of walking may be as significant as the total number of steps taken for improving health outcomes. A study involving approximately 65,000 individuals, with an average age of 61, found that a faster walking pace is linked to a lower risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular diseases.

Data analyzed by Monash University indicates that walking at a rate of 80 steps per minute with fewer than 5,000 daily steps can offer similar health benefits to walking 5,000–7,500 steps at a slower pace of 60 steps per minute. The study monitored participants using activity trackers over an eight-year period to assess mortality risks.

In a broader context regarding lifestyle, adopting a slower pace in daily activities can also provide mental and emotional benefits. Slowing down may help reduce stress, prevent mindless habits such as overeating or excessive phone use, and improve the quality of learning through better focus and repetition.