Evidence Summary
What is an Evidence Summary?
Key messages from scientific research that's ready to be acted on
Got It, Hide thisWalking groups have many health benefits
Hanson S, Jones A. Is there evidence that walking groups have health benefits? A systematic review and meta-analysis Br J Sports Med. 2015; 49:710-715.
Review question
Do walking groups provide health benefits for adults?
Background
Regular physical activity has many health benefits; however the majority of adults are not active enough to gain these benefits. Walking is a moderate intensity exercise that is possible for most older adults to do regularly. Group walking has shown to be an enjoyable, inexpensive way for older adults to increase their physical activity which is social and easy for people to continue in the long term. No research review has assessed the wider health benefits of walking groups.
How the review was done
The researchers did a systematic review and meta-analysis of 42 studies.
The studies included 1843 adults (average age 58 years). Fifteen studies focused on older adults.
Key features of the studies were:
- Majority of participants had health conditions (including arthritis, dementia, diabetes, fibromyalgia obesity, mental health issues, Parkinson’s disease)
- Participants took part in walking groups for time periods ranging from 3 weeks to 1 year, total walking time ranging from 168 to 8580 minutes.
- Walking intensity varied from low to brisk and high-intensity
- Researchers measured changes in physical health and fitness, quality of life and depression as well as adherence to the program and negative side effects.
What the researchers found
Walking groups significantly improved blood pressure, heart rate, body fat, body mass index, cholesterol, fitness, quality of life and walking speed. Risk of depression was also lower among participants. 75% of participants in walking groups completed the entire program and there were no notable negative effects. Future studies evaluating the benefits of walking groups in healthy adults and the optimal intensity and duration of walking groups are recommended.
Conclusion
Walking groups provide a wide range of health benefits in adults and may be a practical way to encourage physical activity.
Glossary
Advanced statistical methods contrasting and combining results from different studies.
A comprehensive evaluation of the available research evidence on a particular topic.
Related Evidence Summaries
-
In adults with pre-hypertension to established hypertension, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) may be the most effective non-drug strategy for reducing blood pressure
Journal of the American Heart Association (2020) -
Aspirin for healthy older adults did not reduce heart attack, stroke, or dementia but increased risk of bleeding
N Engl J Med (2018) -
Self-monitoring reduces blood-sugar levels in patients with non-insulin-treated Type 2 diabetes
Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology (2018)
Related Web Resources
-
Patient education: Quitting smoking (Beyond the Basics)
UpToDate - patient informationThere are many strategies available to help you quit smoking. Start by picking a quit date. Consider speaking with a health care provider for advice, seeking in-person or telephone support, making behavioural changes, and using different medications such as varenicline, bupropion, or nicotine replacement therapy. -
Worried about dementia? Here are 5 ways to cut your risk
HealthLineDementia affects millions of people around the world, and there is no current treatment. There are a few ways to lower your risk. Eat a well-balanced diet, exercise, stay social, and limit alcohol and smoking. -
Heartburn and GERD
Informed Health OnlineRegular acid reflux may mean you have gastro-esophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD. Treatment for GERD includes lifestyle changes, medication or surgery.
Register for free access to all Professional content
RegisterOur Content
About
Support for the Portal is largely provided by the Labarge Optimal Aging Initiative. AGE-WELL is a contributing partner. Help us to continue to provide direct and easy access to evidence-based information on health and social conditions to help you stay healthy, active and engaged as you grow older. Donate Today.
