Study looks at the benefits of walking for stroke patients

(ABC) -- A recent study looked at nearly 130 people who had suffered from strokes – all of whom were able to walk with or without help – and were not participating in any regular exercise programs.

They were divided into two groups. One group was supervised by trained instructors and walked vigorously along a prescribed course for 15 minutes, three times a week, adding five minutes each week, until they reached a half hour.

Another group received massage therapy.

After three months, the walkers reported a 16.7 percent improvement in quality of life and also walked nearly 20 percent farther in an endurance test than their massaged counterparts.