Men who walked eight to 14 hours each week had about a one-third lower risk of stroke compared to men who walked no more than three hours a week or did not walk at all, and the risk was about two-thirds lower for men who walked more than 22 hours a week.
"Compared to walking at a slow pace, the men who walked faster had about a one-third reduction in stroke risk, but this was entirely explained by the fact that they walked further than men who walked slower," Jefferis told MedPage Today. "On balance it seemed that time spent walking, rather than walking pace, was more important in our study."
Walking is the predominant form of physical activity in older adults, and it is important to understand its impact on stroke risk in this population, the researchers wrote.
Walking is cheap exercise and cheap "medication" for stroke prevention. Most people can start at their own pace and time, and slowly improve as ability increases. Of course, it's always advisable to check with a health professional before starting an exercise program.
Not long ago, this blog highlighted a study focusing on women and walking. Now, it's time for men to "take a hike!"
(Photo from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)
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