Hypertension: what exercise mode is best?

Cardiovascular Training. A significant amount of evidence indicates that cardiovascular training helps reduce BP. In a meta-analysis of 54 clinical trials, findings included a reduction in SBP of an average of 3.84 and in DBP of an average of 2.58 in hypertensive men and women (Whelton et al. 2002).

Resistance Training. Although to date there is less research on the effect of resistance exercise on BP, one recent meta-analysis found a decrease of 3.2 and 3.5 for SBP and DBP, respectively (Cornelissen & Fagard 2005a). Yet there is debate—in fact, an association has been shown between vigorous resistance training and reduced arterial compliance (i.e., the arteries stiffen and do not expand as well to increased blood flow) (Miyachi et al. 2003), which can lead to an increase in SBP. However, a study by Kawano and colleagues (2006) demonstrated that aerobic training performed in conjunction with resistance training negated the decrease in arterial compliance. This suggests that resistance training should be accompanied by aerobic training as an intervention strategy, which is in agreement with the ACSM recommendations for the prevention, treatment and control of hypertension (Pescatello et al. 2004a).

Alternative Exercise Modes. A recent Chinese study found that qigong (a series of relaxation, breathing, gentle movement and walking exercises) resulted in the reduction of both SBP and DBP (Cheung et al. 2005). This notable finding may lead to further research into alternative exercise methods that may be beneficial in reducing BP.

To be continued

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Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures, Personal Training/Kinesiologist, Workshops
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