Key messages from scientific research that's ready to be acted on
Got It, Hide thisMurtagh EM, Nichols L, Mohammed MA, et al. The effect of walking on risk factors for cardiovascular disease: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised control trials. Prev Med. 2015;72C:34-43.
In previously inactive adults, does walking reduce risk factors for heart disease?
Physical inactivity increases the risk of many illnesses including heart disease and high blood pressure. Walking is a relatively simple way to increase activity levels, particularly in people who may be sedentary, obese, and at high risk of heart disease. By walking, then, inactive adults may be able to reduce their risk of heart disease.
The researchers did a systematic review based on studies available up to June 2012.
They found 31 randomized controlled trials with 1,487 people (30 to 83 years of age).
Key features of the studies were:
Compared with no exercise, walking reduced:
Compared with no exercise, walking did not affect total cholesterol levels.
In previously inactive adults, walking reduces some risk factors for heart disease.
Outcomes | Number of trials (number of people) | Average difference at follow-up |
Body fat | 14 (719) | 3.5% less with walking |
Systolic blood pressure | 16 (816) | 2.9% lower with walking |
Diastolic blood pressure | 16 (806) | 2.0% lower with walking |
Body mass index (BMI) | 23 (1,201) | 2.0% lower with walking |
Body weight | 25 (1,275) | 1.8% less with walking |
Total cholesterol level | 16 (758) | No difference with walking |
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