12/15/2025
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Leicester found that people who consistently walked at a brisk pace (faster than 4 mph) had a biological age equivalent to being 16 years younger than their chronological age, compared to those with a slower walking speed (under 3 mph).
Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences or “caps” at the ends of chromosomes that protect them from damage during cell division. As cells divide over time, telomeres shorten, eventually leading to cellular senescence (when cells can no longer divide) and contributing to age-related diseases.
Research has revealed that a faster walking pace, particularly exceeding 4mph, is associated with longer telomeres. This shows that walking at a brisk pace helps slow down the rate at which telomeres shorten, thud delaying the onset of age-related diseases and slowing down aging.
The benefits of walking on telomeres length seem to be more pronounced with increased intensity, meaning faster walking speeds. This suggests that it’s not just about the total steps taken, but also how quickly those steps are taken.
Other studies have linked brisk walking to longer life expectancy, with one study in particular finding that brisk walker’s might actually have up to 20 years’ greater life expectancy compared to slow walkers.
PMID: 37495893