Effects of walking on body composition in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: The aim of the study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that examined the effect of walking on body weight, body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Methods: Two authors identified randomized controlled trials of interventions at least 4 weeks in duration that included at least one group with walking as the only treatment and a no-exercise control group. Participants were inactive at baseline. Weighted mean differences were calculated using the fixed-effects and random-effects models. Heterogeneity among trials was examined using the Q statistic and I-2 methods. Potential publication bias was assessed through funnel plot inspection. Results: Eight studies met the study inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis results showed statistically significant reductions in mean differences for BMI (-0.33 kg/m(2), 95% CI -0.62 to -0.04 kg/m(2)), body weight (-1.14 kg, 95% CI -1.86 to -0.42 kg), and body fat percentage (-2.36%, 95% CI -3.21% to -1.52%). The results were consistent in showing effects of walking on BMI (I-2 = 11%), body weight (I-2 = 20%), and body fat percentage (I-2 = 0%). Funnel plots showed asymmetry for body composition. Conclusions: Walking interventions improved body composition in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, which underscores the central role of walking as a physical activity for health promotion.