A cardiologist weighs in on the benefits of slow walking vs fast walking.

Plus, how to know which speed is right for you.

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But in the world of walking, this parable is highly, highly contested.

woman sweating in the gym

New Jersey-based cardiologist

(Yes, its kind of obvious, but it bears emphasizing this point.)

Bear that in mind before you stress about the cadence ofyour steps, okay?

If they are completely sedentary, they should build up to this level slowly.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

Once this level is achieved, they can then ramp up the intensity to gain even more benefit.

But if youre just getting started with walking, theres no need to worry about accelerating your pace.

Regular walking has plenty of health benefits.

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New Jersey-based cardiologist

The benefits of power walking

Dr. Weinrauch definespower walkingas walking that requiresmoderate or vigorous effort.

Similarly with vigorous-intensity activity, one would need to pause for a breath after uttering only a few words.

As Dr. Weinrauch mentioned at the beginning, these benefits happen on a sliding scale.

Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

That way, your walk also doubles as a strength training session.

When youre first getting started, dont fret about the numbers on your fitness watch.

The most important thing: Get those steps…then get those reps.

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