Cobblestone walking advised for health

EUGENE, Ore., Jun 30, 2005 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Scientists at the Oregon Research Institute say their recent study has confirmed the health benefits of cobblestone walking for older adults.

The study confirmed a pilot report that walking on a cobblestone mat surface resulted in significant reductions in blood pressure and improvements in balance and physical performance among adults 60 and over.

"These are very exciting results," said John Fisher, a lead scientist in the latest study. "Compared to conventional walking, the experience of walking on the river rock-like surface of these manufactured cobblestone mats improved participants' balance, measures of mobility, as well as reducing their blood pressure."

Cobblestone-like walking paths are common in China. Chinese medicine believes that the uneven surface of the cobblestones stimulate and regulate "acupoints" located on the soles of the feet.

Cobblestone mats are available from the Oregon Research Institute in Eugene.