February 05, 2013
Regular walks could keep you on the path to a healthy
heart
Taking regular walks significantly reduces the risk
of Metabolic Syndrome, according to researchers.
Metabolic Syndrome is a term used to describe
a combination of cardiovascular risk factors, including high blood pressure and blood sugar, and
excess weight around your middle.
Researchers examined the fitness of 38,000 men
and women before categorising their fitness levels
as either ‘low’, ‘moderate’ or ‘high’. Those in the ‘moderate’
category were less likely to suffer from Metabolic Syndrome
compared to those in the ‘low’ group.
Doireann Maddock, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the
British Heart Foundation (BHF), said: “This study shows that people
who have a moderate level of fitness have less
chance of developing cardiovascular risk factors, such as high
blood pressure and cholesterol.
“We all know how important it is to keep
active, but many of us struggle to fit exercise into our daily
routine. This research confirms that physical activity doesn’t have
to mean spending hours in the gym - simple but regular
exercise, such as walking, can have real health
benefits.
“Building up to a brisk 30 minute
walk on five days a week will help to raise your fitness
levels and keep your heart healthy.”
This research was published online by the
journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings.