Walking as an intervention to reduce blood pressure in adults with hypertension: recommendations and implications for

Mohamed Mansoor1, Oliver Hamer2, Kirishan Sandrasekar1

  • 1NHS Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Lancashire, UK.

Insights

Walking may be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for reducing high blood pressure (hypertension). This systematic review appraises evidence on whether regular walking can lower blood pressure, offering a potential lifestyle change to mitigate cardiovascular and stroke risks.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Exercise Science

Background:

  • Hypertension impacts over 1.39 billion adults globally, defined as systolic blood pressure >140mmHg.
  • Elevated blood pressure significantly increases risks for cardiovascular events and stroke.
  • Pharmacological treatments exist but may cause side effects, prompting interest in lifestyle interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically appraise a systematic review evaluating the efficacy of walking in reducing blood pressure.
  • To assess the potential of walking as a non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review appraisal.
  • Analysis of studies investigating the impact of walking on blood pressure levels.

Main Results:

  • Evidence suggests that walking interventions can lead to reductions in blood pressure.
  • The effectiveness may vary based on walking protocols (frequency, intensity, duration).

Conclusions:

  • Walking presents a viable, accessible, and non-pharmacological approach to help manage and lower hypertension.
  • Incorporating regular walking into lifestyle modifications may mitigate risks associated with high blood pressure.

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