According to a large-scale systematic review and meta-analysis of 270 previous studies, aerobic exercise training, dynamic resistance training, combined training, high-intensity interval training and isometric exercise training are significantly effective in reducing resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure; static isometric exercise training — the sort that involve engaging muscles without movement, such as wall sits and planks — is the most effective mode.
“Hypertension is a leading modifiable risk factor for morbidity and mortality,” said Dr. Jamie O’Driscoll and colleagues from Canterbury Christ Church University and the University of Leicester.
“While differences in diagnostic cut-off points exist in guidelines, blood pressure above optimal levels is lineally associated with an escalated risk of cardiovascular disease.”
“With the prevalence of hypertension increasing, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, research into effective antihypertensive interventions remains critical.”
“Medical therapy is an effective means of reducing blood pressure; however, poor adherence, adverse side effects and economic expenditure are important limitations.”
“As such, non-pharmacological approaches are favored,” they said.
“Exercise elicits conclusive cardiovascular health benefits and improves long-term survival, with a longitudinal association between physical activity and reduced mortality well documented.”
“We aimed to provide an updated large-scale systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on the effects of exercise training on resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure.”
The researchers trawled research databases looking for clinical trials reporting the effects of an exercise training intervention lasting 2 or more weeks on resting blood pressure.
The initial systematic search identified 14,553 trials, with an additional 138 trials discovered through screening of previous…
Read the full article here