Medical News Today (MNT)Daily Walk May Prolong Lifespan

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A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine presents compelling evidence linking daily walking habits to increased life expectancy among Americans over 40. The research, based on national health data and Census information, indicates that matching the activity levels of the most physically active population segment could add up to 11 years to life expectancy for sedentary individuals.

Key Points:

• The top 25% of physically active Americans achieve approximately 160 minutes of walking daily at nearly 3 miles per hour
• For the least active 25% of the population, each hour of walking correlates to a 6-hour increase in life expectancy
• Sedentary individuals who match the activity levels of the most active group could gain up to 11 years in life expectancy
• Walking provides cardiovascular benefits by improving heart rate, blood pressure, and reducing excess body fat
• The study, while observational, aligns with established research on physical activity’s relationship to mortality risk
• Benefits are achievable at any age, with previously inactive individuals showing the most significant relative gains

A study of 17,466 women (aged 62–101 years) found that approximately 4,400 steps per day was associated with a 41% reduction in mortality rate compared with approximately 2,700 steps per day, with a steady decline in mortality rates up to approximately 7,500 steps per day, beyond which mortality rates levelled. (GeroScience)

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