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But it’s not just a few steps.
According to study co-author Linda Pescatello, a professor of kinesiology at the University of Connecticut’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, walking an additional 3,000 steps per day (about 1.5 miles at an average pace) can lead to symptoms such as: It is said to be able to lower blood pressure in elderly people. High blood pressure. In the United States, it is estimated that 80% of older adults have high blood pressure.
The study involved a group of 21 adults between the ages of 68 and 78 who walked only about 4,000 steps a day. He was asked to walk an additional 3,000 steps each day, which they thought were reasonable goals, and was sent equipment to track his progress.
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Pescatello and other members of the research group found that participants lowered their systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 7 and 4 points, respectively, on average.
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The results suggest that walking 7,000 steps a day may be the same as taking blood pressure medication. Eight participants were taking medication for high blood pressure and saw improvement with more walking.
“Previous studies have shown that when exercise and drugs are combined, exercise can potentiate the effects of blood pressure drugs alone,” Pescatello said. “This just speaks to the value of exercise as an antihypertensive therapy. It doesn’t negate the effectiveness of drugs at all, but it is part of the treatment arsenal.”
“We found that what really matters here is the amount of physical activity, not the intensity. Use volume as a goal and anything that fits or works will convey health benefits.”
Even better news, the study authors say, is that it doesn’t take many steps to lower blood pressure, nor does it require expensive equipment.
