I tend to be an annoyingly fast walker. I always loved the 'bushwack' position when leading Sierra Club group backpacking trips -- bushwacks remain in front of the pack navigating the route. I dreaded the 'sweep' position, which meant I hiked in the rear of the pack, making sure to sweep all the stragglers from point A to point B. Hiking slower than my normal pace is physically and psychologically painful, especially when carrying a load.

New research following 500 older people for nearly a decade found quicker walkers were less likely to die. Nine years after initial gait speed was measured, 77 percent of slow walkers had died, compared to only 50 percent of medium speed and 27 percent of fast walkers. Gait speed may enhance your survival, even in people who appear generally healthy. Another study just released found people who improved their walking gait reduced risk of death.

Next time my husband tells me to slow down, I'll inform him I'm giving my longevity a workout!