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 (n = 33; standard care) or a walking group (n = 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 (p = 0.071) and estimated creatinine clearance (p = 0.089). Between-group analysis revealed significantly higher superoxide dismutase activity (p = 0.028) and lower malondialdehyde levels (p = 0.037) in the walking group. Both groups exhibited blood pressure reductions, with greater decreases in pulse rate (p = 0.016) and rate-pressure product (p = 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.