Walking speed might just be the simplest way to check your risk for metabolic health issues if you’re living with obesity, says a new study. Published in the journal 'Scientific Reports', the research suggests that walking faster doesn’t just boost mobility – it could also be a sign of better overall health.  

Past studies have already linked slower walking speeds with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and mortality, especially in older adults. Now, scientists at Japan's Doshisha University are shining a spotlight on how this applies to metabolic diseases in obese individuals.  

Faster walkers, lower risks  

“This study clarified that even individuals with obesity, who are at higher risk for metabolic diseases, have lower odds of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia if they report a fast subjective walking speed,” explains Professor Kojiro Ishii, one of the researchers.  

The study shows that those who walk at a quicker pace may be fitter overall and have reduced risks of diabetes, hypertension, and other metabolic conditions. In fact, fast walkers had a 30 percent lower chance of developing diabetes.  

Why walking fast matters

So, what makes a faster walking pace so powerful? The researchers say it’s linked to better cardiorespiratory fitness, which can help lower inflammation and oxidative stress – two key culprits behind metabolic diseases.  

Another bonus? Unlike measuring objective walking speed, which requires special tools and time, subjective walking speed – how fast you think you walk compared to others – is easy to incorporate into routine health check-ups.  

Simple steps to better health  

The study assessed over 8,500 individuals with obesity, nearly 10,000 with high waist circumferences, and more than 6,700 who met both criteria. The results were clear: faster walkers had notably lower risks of diabetes, along with smaller reductions in risks of hypertension and dyslipidemia.  

“Promoting a faster walking pace may be a helpful individual behaviour to help prevent metabolic diseases, particularly in individuals with obesity,” adds Dr Ishii.  

(Agency inputs)