The Effect of Stretching Exercises on Vascular Function, Blood Flow, and Walking Function in Middle and Older Adults

The Effect of Stretching Exercises on Vascular Function, Blood Flow, and Walking Function in Middle and Older Adults

This study examines the relationship between circulation and walking speed after performing 8-week stretching exercises.

This study examines the relationship between circulations and walking speeds. Most studies in the field of stretching exercises have only focused on improvements of endothelial functions in younger population; however, I aim to emphasize its effects on different populations, such as people with frailty, low physical activity level, weakness and postoperative status. Previous research has established that stretching exercises can improve walking function by modulations of musculoskeletal or neuromuscular system. The importance and originality of this study are that it explores the relationship between circulation and walking speed. Due to the inability to extrapolate outcomes; short-term effect of improved blood vessel function; the unclear mechanism of stretching exercises; and considering the different physical fitness groups, I design a home-based, low-dose, and anatomic chain-based stretching exercises to verify the possible mechanism and effects.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. age between 20-85 years old
2. Follow instructions
3. Walk with/without assistive technology

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Unstable acute or chronic health conditions
2. Peripheral vascular diseases
3. Non-musculoskeletal problems that would limit stretching exercises
4. Participate in other exercise programs