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A new study from the University of Leicester has revealed that the speed at which a person walks may be one of the strongest predictors of how long they are likely to live.

The findings, published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings, suggest that simple physical measures could sometimes predict mortality risk more effectively than traditional medical indicators such as blood pressure and cholesterol.

Study analysed over 4 lakh adults

Researchers examined health data from more than 4 lakh participants in the UK Biobank database to understand how physical fitness markers relate to premature death risk.

The study evaluated five simple physical indicators:

• Walking pace
• Handgrip strength
• Resting heart rate
• Sleep duration
• Leisure-time physical activity

Among all these measures, walking pace reportedly emerged as the strongest single predictor of mortality.

Walking pace linked to overall health

According to the researchers, people who walk at a slower pace may face higher risks of underlying health problems and premature death compared to faster walkers.

The study found that even replacing blood pressure and cholesterol data with self-reported walking pace improved mortality prediction models, especially among people already living with chronic health conditions.

Tom Yates said the findings highlight how basic physical behaviour and fitness measurements can offer a simple and cost-effective way to identify people at greater health risk.

Simple habits may improve long-term health

Researchers also stressed that walking is not only an indicator of health but also an important form of daily physical activity that supports cardiovascular fitness, metabolism, mobility, and mental wellbeing.

Health experts say regular walking can help reduce risks associated with obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stress- illnesses.

The study has gained attention because it highlights how accessible lifestyle markers may help both healthcare systems and individuals better understand long-term health risks without relying entirely on expensive medical testing.

Experts call findings important for preventive healthcare

The researchers believe such simple measures could support more targeted preventive healthcare strategies in the future.

The findings have also sparked discussions around how lifestyle habits and physical fitness may reveal early warning signs of declining health long before major diseases become visible