There’s a link between walking speed and ageing well. Here’s how you can improve your pace

avtk/Shutterstock by Andrés Ráfales Perucha, Universidad San Jorge and Pablo Gargallo Aguarón, Universidad San Jorge For decades, we have known that the way you walk, in particular your walking speed, is tied to your health. One study has even proposed that it be considered a vital sign, much like heart rate and blood pressure. Various studies have found a link between low walking speed in adults over 65 and a greater risk of cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, falls (which could lead to fractures), hospitalization, and even an increased overall mortality rate. A higher walking speed, on the other hand, is associated with increased functional capacity, meaning a better ability to move around and do activities independently. It is also linked to greater longevity. But how fast should you walk? Studies recommend a few simple tests, which principally consist of timing how long it takes a person to walk between two points at their usual pace. This test is done over a distance of four meters. A speed of under 0.8 meters per second is associated with a greater risk of frailty. How to improve walking speed While there is slight disagreement as to the best exercise for increasing walking speed,...