The effects of pedometer-based exercise on central and peripheral vascular functions among young sedentary men with...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular research
• Exercise physiology
• Vascular function assessment

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of death globally and in Malaysia, driven by risk factors like hypertension and obesity.
• Increased physical activity is a recommended strategy to mitigate CVD risk.
• Vascular function parameters like Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV_CF), Augmentation Index (AI), and Finger Photoplethysmography Fitness (PPGF) index are used to assess CVD risk, but long-term exercise effects on PPGF are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a 12-week pedometer-based walking program on vascular function and CVD risk factors in sedentary young men.
• To determine if a pedometer intervention improves PWV_CF, AI, and PPGF index compared to a control group.

Main Methods:

• Seventy sedentary young men with at least two CVD risk factors were recruited and randomized into a control group (no change in walking) or a pedometer group (target: 8,000 steps/day).
• Vascular parameters (PWV_CF, AI, PPGF index) and anthropometric/lipid profiles were measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks.
• The pedometer group achieved a significant increase in daily step count from baseline (4,996 ± 805) to post-intervention (10,128 ± 511).

Main Results:

• The pedometer group demonstrated significant improvements in anthropometric variables, lipid profiles, PWV_CF, AI, and PPGF index (p < 0.001).
• No significant changes were observed in the control group.
• The results indicate a positive impact of the pedometer-based walking program on vascular health markers.

Conclusions:

• A pedometer-based walking program is effective in improving vascular function markers among young, sedentary working men with CVD risk factors.
• Encouraging pedometer-based exercise can be a valuable strategy for enhancing cardiovascular health in at-risk populations.