Walking Speed Strongly Correlates with Lifespan, Study Finds

A large observational study published in JAMA and based on data from nine cohort studies conducted by the University of Pittsburgh tracked 34,485 older adults. Researchers found a clear relationship between habitual walking speed and average life expectancy. Participants who walked slowly (about 0.72 km/h) lived to an average of 74 years, those with a moderate pace (≈2.88 km/h) reached 80 years, and fast walkers (≈5.76 km/h) averaged 95 years – a gap of roughly 21 years between the slowest and fastest groups.

The authors advise that walking intensity, duration and timing matter. Moderate‑intensity walking for 20–30 minutes daily, equivalent to about 7,000 steps, aligns with World Health Organization recommendations. Exercising 30 minutes to one hour after meals may help regulate blood glucose and lipid levels. Safety precautions are emphasized for seniors and individuals with cardiovascular or musculoskeletal conditions, recommending gradual progression from slower to faster paces.