Health check red flags despite daily walks? 3.1 million analyzed

While walking is a popular and accessible form of exercise, a large-scale study in South Korea suggests it may not be enough on its own for optimal health. Analysis of over 3.1 million health check-up participants revealed that individuals who combined strength training with aerobic exercises had a lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome than those who only engaged in aerobic activities.

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Muscles are important tissues for storing and consuming blood sugar. People with sufficient muscle mass and frequent muscle use are likely to have advantages in blood sugar control, insulin sensitivity, body fat distribution, and lipid metabolism.

The study, conducted by KMI Korea Institute of Medical Research, found that 43.4% of participants did not meet the World Health Organization's recommended physical activity levels. Among those who did exercise, 25.4% performed only aerobic exercise, 8.2% only strength training, and 23.0% combined both. The group that engaged in both aerobic and strength training showed significantly lower rates of metabolic syndrome (17.0%) and diabetes (5.5%) compared to groups performing only aerobic exercise or no exercise.

Experts emphasize that muscles play a crucial role in health, acting as key organs for storing and consuming blood sugar. Dr. Ahn Ji-hyun, a senior researcher at KMI, explained, "People with sufficient muscle mass and frequent muscle use are likely to have advantages in blood sugar control, insulin sensitivity, body fat distribution, and lipid metabolism." She clarified that this doesn't diminish the importance of aerobic exercise but highlights the need for a balanced approach.

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This result does not mean that aerobic exercise is not important, but it shows that for metabolic health, strength training should also be considered in addition to aerobic exercise.

For busy individuals, especially those in their 40s who face significant time constraints due to work and family responsibilities, incorporating strength training is crucial. Experts recommend a minimum goal of two to three aerobic sessions and two strength training sessions per week. Even short, fragmented exercise periods throughout the day, such as walking during commutes or doing a few sets of squats after work, can be effective. The key, experts stress, is consistency in engaging muscles, not necessarily long, uninterrupted workout times.

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For those whose 40s, even if there are no outward symptoms, it is an important turning point where abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure and blood sugar, and dyslipidemia begin.