Segregating the distinct effects of sedentary behaviour and physical activity on older adults’ cardiovascular profile: Part 2- Isotemporal substitution approach.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to provide an isotemporal substitution model to predict how changes in physical behavior may affect the cardiovascular parameters (CVPs) of older adults. METHODS: Participants wore a thigh-mounted accelerometer for 7 days. Phenotype of the carotid, brachial, and popliteal artery was conducted using ultrasound. Isotemporal substitution was used to simulate the degree to which replacing 1 hour of physical behavior with another would affect CVP. RESULTS: Substitution of sedentary behavior with Standing and sporadic moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA accumulated in bouts <10 min) would reduce resting heart rate [-6.20 beats per minute (-12.1 to -0.22) and -3.72 beats per minute (-7.01 to -0.44), respectively]. Substitution of sedentary behavior with light-intensity physical activity would reduce carotid artery diameter [-0.54 mm (-1.00 to -0.07)]. Substitution of Standing with sporadic MVPA would increase popliteal artery diameter [1.31 mm (0.11 to 2.51)]. CONCLUSIONS: Our modeling suggests that an accumulation of MVPA bouts that are shorter than the recommended 10-minute minimum may still improve CVP, with lower intensity physical activity also influencing CVP. Our findings are a promising avenue for lifestyle interventions in older adults to reduce the aging effects on CVP for those who cannot engage or sustain sufficient MVPA.