A recent study found that a 12-week Nordic walking program significantly improved the functional capacity and exercise ability of people with coronary artery disease, which is a key predictor of future cardiovascular events. To start Nordic walking, you'll need trekking poles and a good walking route, and it's important to maintain proper posture and technique to maximize benefits.
A study from the University of Jyväskylä reveals that a tighter interconnection between different domains of functional capacity in the elderly may indicate reduced system resilience, leading to cascading failures. The research, which utilized network analysis, suggests that maintaining a balance between interconnectedness and independence within these domains is crucial for preserving functional capacity and overall well-being in old age. The study, part of the AGNES project, emphasizes the importance of maintaining reserve capacity and compensatory mechanisms to adapt to aging-related challenges and preserve quality of life.
Home-based walking exercise regimens have been found to be more effective than supervised treadmill physical therapy in patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD). A meta-analysis of five randomized clinical trials showed that home-based walking exercise improved the distance walked in the 6-Minute Walk test by 50.7 meters, while supervised treadmill exercise improved it by 32.9 meters compared to the non-exercise control group. The findings suggest that home-based walking exercise is a better alternative for improving walking limitations in PAD patients.