The Effect of Exercise on Blood Pressure Control in Hypertensive Patients

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute estimates that one in three American adults has hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Exercise is a primary form of prevention and treatment of hypertension. Over time, aerobic exercise improves blood pressure control for hypertensive patients by strengthening the heart.

Definitions

• Normal resting blood pressure is any reading of 120/80 mm Hg or lower. The units of this measurement, mm Hg, are the abbreviated form of the phrase "millimeters of mercury." The top number, or systolic blood pressure, is the pressure of the blood when the heart is contracting. The bottom number, or diastolic blood pressure, is the pressure of the blood when the heart is relaxing and refilling. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg is considered high blood pressure.

Short-Term Effects

• During moderate intensity physical activity, a small increase in blood pressure is normal as the heart beats a little harder and faster. However after a single bout of aerobic activity blood pressure can drop somewhat and remain lower than usual for up to 22 hours, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. The body's blood vessels respond to aerobic exercise by expanding to increase blood flow to working muscles. This in turn reduces blood pressure throughout the entire circulatory system.

Long-Term Effects

• Regular, long-term participation in aerobic physical activity reduces blood pressure for most people. Aerobic activity strengthens the heart, making each beat more effective. A strong heart does more work with less effort, reducing blood pressure.

Strength Training

• Straining against heavy weights or holding the breath while weightlifting dramatically increases blood pressure. People with hypertension should concentrate on using lower weights and performing a higher number of repetitions to reduce these risks.

Aerobic Activity is the Key

• For optimal health, hypertensive patients should engage in regular, moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as brisk walking for at least 30 to 60 minutes daily. Other types of aerobic activity include swimming, cycling, dancing and even vigorous yard work. Stretching after every exercise session improves flexibility.

Strength Training Also Helps

• Though aerobic activities trump all other forms of exercise for people living with high blood pressure, strength training improves overall fitness. Being stronger may also make it easier to perform activities of daily living such as carrying groceries, doing laundry, and playing with kids or pets. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends performing one set of 12-15 repetitions of an exercise for each of the major muscle groups of the body twice weekly. As always, hypertensive patients should check with their physician before beginning or changing their physical activity levels.