Benefit of podometry in the prevention of cardiovascular risk factors

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases constitute the first cause of mortality worldwide by the synergic effect between their modifiable risk factors. Physical activity, specifically daily walking, altogether with the use of a pedometer is associated with a meaningful reduction of cardiovascular events and premature mortality. The purpose of this review is to describe the benefits of walking-based-pedometer in the prevention of modifiable risk factors. 

Methodology:  It was conformed from the lecture of original articles, review articles, meta-analysis, prospective and retrospective studies and case-control studies using searchers such as PubMed, HINARI and Google Scholar, using terms with the operator “AND” like “pedometry AND hypertension”. An obsolescence minus 5 years in the 90% of references was used. 

Results: It is shown that walking-based-pedometer promotes an uprising in daily physical activity by giving motivation mediated by positive retro alimentation, besides, it encourages healthier behavior. Cardiovascular benefits can be obtained by realizing less than 10 000 daily steps and consist on the improvement of blood pressure, glycaemia, lipid panel and body composition. 

Conclusion: Daily walking-based-pedometer promotes healthier habits and thus prevents the emergence and progression of modifiable risk factors, mainly on people with previous morbidity.