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Study: Brisk Walking Linked to Lower Risk of Heart Rhythm Issues
New research indicates that engaging in brisk walking may significantly decrease the likelihood of developing heart rhythm disorders. The study suggests that this form of physical activity serves as a safe and effective method to mitigate arrhythmia, a condition characterized by irregular heartbeats, either too rapid or too slow.
Link Between Walking Pace and Arrhythmia Risk Investigated
Researchers from the University of Glasgow conducted the study, analysing data collected from 420,925 participants in the UK Biobank. Walking speeds were self-reported by participants through questionnaires.
Defining Walking Pace Categories
Walking pace was categorised as follows:
- Slow pace: Less than three miles per hour
- Average pace: Three to four miles per hour
- Brisk pace: More than four miles per hour
Study Findings on Heart Rhythm Problems
Among the participants, 221,664 reported walking at an average pace, and 171,384 at a brisk pace. Over a 13-year follow-up period, approximately 36,574 individuals developed some form of heart rhythm issues.
Types of Heart Rhythm Disorders and Associated Risks
These conditions included:
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- Atrial fibrillation (AF): Characterised by an irregular and rapid heartbeat in the upper chambers of the heart.
- Abnormally slow heartbeats
- Ventricular arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms originating in the lower heart chambers.
Untreated heart rhythm problems can elevate the risk of serious health events such as stroke, heart failure, and cardiac arrest.
Causes and Risk Reduction of Heart Rhythm Issues
Heart rhythm disorders arise from malfunctions in the heart’s electrical system that regulates heartbeat. Underlying conditions like hypertension, myocardial infarctions, certain medications, or viral infections can also trigger these issues.
Impact of Walking Pace on Arrhythmia Risk
The research team discovered that walking at an average pace reduced the risk of heart rhythm problems by 35%, while a brisk pace further lowered the risk by 43%, when compared to individuals walking at a slow pace. These findings highlight the benefits of faster walking for cardiovascular health.
Brisk Walking Significantly Decreases Atrial Fibrillation Risk
The study, published in the journal Heart, revealed that walking at a brisk pace showed a particularly strong association with reduced atrial fibrillation (AF) risk. The risk of AF was nearly halved (46%) in the fastest walking group.
Time Spent Walking and Arrhythmia Risk
Analysis of data from 81,956 participants indicated that 4,117 developed arrhythmias during the observation period. The study established that increased time spent walking at an average or brisk pace correlated with a 27% decrease in the risk of developing cardiovascular rhythm issues.
Metabolic and Inflammatory Factors in Walking’s Benefits
The researchers further elaborated: “This investigation is the first to explore the mechanisms behind the link between walking pace and arrhythmias. Evidence suggests that metabolic and inflammatory factors may play a role, as faster walking reduced the risk of obesity and inflammation, subsequently lowering arrhythmia risk.” These results underscore the importance of incorporating brisk walking into exercise habits for improved heart health.