Rhythmic Walking Exercise as a Low-Intensity Strategy to Enhance Health and Preserve Kidney Function in Individuals with CKD Stages 2–3

Physical inactivity contributes to oxidative stress, hypertension, and progressive kidney dysfunction in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Rhythmic walking, a low-intensity and easily implemented form of exercise, may offer renal and cardiovascular benefits. This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of rhythmic walking in adults with CKD stages 2-3. Sixty-four participants (mean age: 67.8 ± 7.5 years) were randomly assigned to a control group (<i>n</i> = 33; standard care) or a walking group (<i>n</i> = 31; 30 min/session, three times weekly for 12 weeks at 60 steps/min). Primary outcomes included kidney function, oxidative stress, and blood pressure. After 12 weeks, no significant within-group changes were observed in kidney function, though the walking group showed trends toward higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (<i>p</i> = 0.071) and estimated creatinine clearance (<i>p</i> = 0.089). Between-group analysis revealed significantly higher superoxide dismutase activity (<i>p</i> = 0.028) and lower malondialdehyde levels (<i>p</i> = 0.037) in the walking group. Both groups exhibited blood pressure reductions, with greater decreases in pulse rate (<i>p</i> = 0.016) and rate-pressure product (<i>p</i> = 0.039) in the walking group. A 12-week rhythmic walking program improved oxidative stress and BP profiles and may help slow renal decline in CKD.