Walking Promotes Physical Fitness of Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Physical activity is positively associated with the health of older adults. Walking is a simple activity that can be applied to older adults. This article aims to systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of walking on physical fitness in older adults. Studies were searched from 13 databases. Results showed that walking could improve aerobic endurance (21.04, 95% CI [13.82, 28.27]), lower body strength (2.77, 95% CI [1.46, 4.09]), static balance (6.07, 95% CI [3.34, 8.79]), and agility and dynamic balance (1.52, 95% CI [0.23, 2.80]). Walking is effective and should be promoted to improve the physical function of older adults.