Effects of Low Intensity Walking Exercise on Leukocyte Telomere Length and Functional Fitness in Elderly Women

This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12 week low intensity walking exercise program, performed three times per week, on leukocyte telomere length and functional fitness in elderly women. A total of 16 elderly women participated in the study and were randomly assigned to either an exercise group(n=8) or a control group(n=8). The exercise group engaged in a supervised low intensity walking program for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained their usual daily activities without any intervention. Leukocyte telomere length and functional fitness were assessed before and after the intervention. The results showed a significant increase in leukocyte telomere length in the exercise group, as well as a significant improvement in functional fitness compared to the control group. These findings suggest that a 12 week low intensity walking exercise program may positively contribute to delaying cellular aging and enhancing physical function in elderly women.