Effects of a year-long pedometer-based walking program on cardiovascular disease risk factors in active older people.

ABSTRACT

We assessed the relationship between the number of daily steps and changes in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in a year-long pedometer-based walking program for physically active older people. A total of 36 physically active older people (68.3 ± 5.8 years) completed this 59-week program. The CVD risk parameters were measured at baseline and at weeks 21 and 59. The mean number of steps increased by week 21 and was maintained at week 59 (approximately 10 000 steps, increase in 1500 steps from the baseline; P < .05). Following a significant reduction in body mass index at week 21, systolic blood pressure levels were significantly reduced, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly increased at week 59 (P < .05). In summary, even active older people can achieve further protection against CVD risks by minor, but sustained, physical activity using pedometers for a period of more than 1 year.