A large study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine examined how different types of exercise affect resting blood pressure. High blood pressure is a common condition that increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, so finding ways to lower it is crucial for public health. This research analyzed data from many randomized controlled trials, making it one of the largest studies of its kind.
The researchers looked at various types of exercise, including aerobic activities like walking or cycling, resistance training such as weightlifting, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and combination programs. They also compared exercise against usual treatments for high blood pressure, such as medications or no treatment at all.
The findings showed that exercise is an effective way to lower resting blood pressure. Aerobic exercise, like walking or cycling, was particularly effective, showing consistent benefits across different groups of people. Resistance training, such as lifting weights, also helped reduce blood pressure, though the effects were slightly smaller compared to aerobic activities. High-intensity interval training (short bursts of intense activity followed by rest) was another promising option, showing similar reductions in blood pressure to traditional aerobic exercise.
One key takeaway is that exercise can be as effective as some medications for lowering blood pressure, especially in people with mild to moderate hypertension. The study highlighted the importance of regular physical activity for heart health and recommended that people aim for a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises to achieve the best results.
Overall, this study reinforces the idea that exercise is a powerful tool for managing blood pressure. Whether it’s walking, lifting weights, or trying interval training, staying active can play a big role in improving overall health and reducing the risks associated with high blood pressure.