Light Walking Patterns and Postprandial Cardiometabolic Responses in Young Obese Adults: A Randomized Crossover Study

Abstract Context Recent studies suggest that light-intensity physical activity may enhance cardiometabolic health and reduce mortality risk in adults. However, more information is required to understand the patterns of light-intensity physical activity and postprandial cardiometabolic health. Objective This study examined the effects of different light-intensity walking patterns on postprandial cardiometabolic responses in young obese adults. Design A randomized crossover trial was conducted. Setting The study was conducted in the laboratory. Participants The study analyzed baseline (fasting) and 6-hour postprandial concentrations of glucose, insulin, triglycerides, and blood pressure (BP) in 16 young obese adults. Interventions Participants underwent four 7-hour experimental conditions with a 7–20-day washout period: uninterrupted sitting (SIT), 30-minute light-intensity walking (EX+SIT), 3-minute light-intensity walking every 30 minutes (BR), and 30-minute light-intensity walking with 3-minute light-intensity walking every 30 minutes (EX+BR). Main Outcome Measures Incremental areas under the curve (iAUC) for each outcome and average BP were compared between SIT and walking conditions. Results Compared with SIT, all walking conditions reduced iAUCs for glucose and average diastolic BP (all p<0.05). Only EX+SIT and EX+BR reduced iAUCs for insulin (p<0.05). No significant differences were found for triglycerides iAUC and systolic BP between the four conditions (all p>0.05). Conclusions All patterns of light-intensity walking reduced postprandial glucose concentrations and diastolic BP in young obese adults, suggesting benefits for glycemic control. Continuous 30-minute light-intensity walking alone, or combined with brief 3-min bouts also attenuated postprandial insulin concentrations, highlighting light-intensity walking as a promising strategy for improving cardiometabolic health in young obese adults.