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Evidence Summary
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Got It, Hide thisWalking reduces some risk factors for heart disease in previously inactive adults
Murtagh 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.
Review question
In previously inactive adults, does walking reduce risk factors for heart disease?
Background
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.
How the review was done
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:
- people walked 20 to 60 minutes/day, 2 to 7 days/week, for 8 to 52 weeks;
- walking intensity varied from light to vigorous, and could be self-paced; and
- walking was compared with no exercise.
What the researchers found
Compared with no exercise, walking reduced:
- body fat;
- blood pressure;
- body mass index (BMI); and
- body weight.
Compared with no exercise, walking did not affect total cholesterol levels.
Conclusion
In previously inactive adults, walking reduces some risk factors for heart disease.
Walking vs no exercise in inactive people
| 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 |
Related Topics
Glossary
Indicates whether someone’s height and weight puts them at an increased risk of a number of chronic diseases.
A fat-like substance with a soft, waxy texture.
The lower number in a blood pressure reading. It is the pressure when the heart rests between beats.
Studies where people are assigned to one of the treatments purely by chance.
Aspects making a condition more likely.
A comprehensive evaluation of the available research evidence on a particular topic.
The higher number in a blood pressure reading. It is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
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