Brisk Walking Linked to Lower Risk of Heart Rhythm Disorders

A team of Scottish researchers has found that a lively pace can substantially reduce the likelihood of heart rhythm irregularities. Their analysis, which drew on data from over 420,000 individuals, revealed that the faster someone walks, the lower their risk of developing arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, and bradycardia. The findings were published in the journal Heart.

Over the 13-year study period, nearly 37,000 participants experienced episodes of arrhythmia. Those who favored a brisk walking pace showed a 43 percent lower risk of such conditions compared to their slower-moving counterparts. Even a moderate walking speed offered a protective effect, cutting the risk by 35 percent.

The benefits of brisk walking were most pronounced among women, individuals under 60, those with chronic illnesses, and people without obesity. The researchers attribute this to both the direct impact of physical activity and its role in enhancing metabolism and reducing bodily inflammation.

The study’s authors highlight walking as the most accessible form of exercise, requiring no special training or equipment. Despite some limitations—such as reliance on fitness tracker data for some participants and a predominantly European cohort—the conclusion is clear: a swift stroll is a simple yet effective way to bolster heart health and ward off arrhythmias.