Andrea Marković1, Aleksandra Aleksić Veljković1, Borko Katanic2, Branislav Majkić1, Dusko Bjelica3, Diellza Kelmendi4
1University of Nis, Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, Nis, Serbia
2Montenegrin Sports Academy, Podgorica, Montenegro
3University of Montenegro, Faculty for Sport and Physical Education, Niksic, Montenegro
4Kosovo Olympic Committee, Pristina, Kosovo
Effects of Different Walking Models on the Health-Related Fitness Parameters of Elderly Persons: A Systematic Review
Sport Mont 2025, 23(3), Ahead of Print | DOI: 10.26773/smj.251019
Abstract
Exercise and physical activity are widely promoted as an effective means of improving the health and physical functioning of older adults. Walking as a recreational activity is one of the safest and most appropriate forms of physical activity for older adults. The aim of the study was to explain, by searching the available literature, how different walking models affect the health-related fitness parameters of the elderly. The search and anal- ysis of the studies were done in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, and the study protocol was registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42023461140. An electronic databases search (Google Scholar, PubMed, Mendeley, Science Direct, and Scopus) yielded 225 relevant studies conducted in the last 15 years. A total of 15 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis, which analyzed the effects of different types of walking, such as Nordic walking, normal walking, and other unconventional walking programs, such as dog walking, ecological walk- ing, walking with ankle weights, and continuous stair walking, on various health fitness variables in the older population. Nordic walking has been shown to be an effective exercise for improving body composition, cardio- vascular fitness, motor abilities, and balance in the elderly individuals. Normal walking has also been found to positively influence body composition and muscle strength, while improving VO2max, balance, and flexibility. Unconventional walking programs such as dog walking, ecological walking, walking with ankle weights, and continuous stair walking have also shown positive results in improving aerobic endurance, leg strength, upper limb strength, and functionality of heart capacity. However, it is important to ensure proper intensity and volume of training to avoid potential negative outcomes, such as an increase in subcutaneous fat or overtraining. Overall, walking programs can be an effective and accessible way for elderly individuals to improve their physical fitness and overall health. The obtained results indicate the necessity of physical activity in old age in order to lead a quality and healthy life.
Keywords
physical activity, walking program, fitness status, functional ability, older adults
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