Reductions in resting blood pressure after 4 weeks of isometric exercise training

Eur J Appl Physiol. 2010 Jul;109(4):601-6. doi: 10.1007/s00421-010-1394-x. Epub 2010 Feb 26.

Abstract

There is some evidence to suggest isometric training can reduce resting blood pressure in a shorter period than the typical 8 weeks, reported most commonly. The purpose of the present study was to explore whether 4 weeks of bilateral-leg isometric training can reduce resting blood pressure, and whether these changes are associated with altered cardiac output or total peripheral resistance. Thirteen participants volunteered for a 4-week crossover training study, involving three sessions per week (each session involving 4 x 2 min bilateral-leg isometric exercise). The training intensity used (95% peak HR) was equivalent to 24% MVC. In addition to blood pressure, resting heart rate, cardiac output, stroke volume, and total peripheral resistance were measured. Results demonstrated that bilateral-leg isometric exercise training for 4 weeks caused significant reductions in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure. Changes were -4.9 +/- 5.8, -2.8 +/- 3.2, and -2.7 +/- 2.4 mmHg, respectively. No differences were observed in the other resting measures. In conclusion, this study has shown that it is possible to induce reductions in arterial blood pressure after 4 weeks of bilateral-leg isometric exercise.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological
  • Adolescent
  • Blood Pressure Determination
  • Blood Pressure*
  • Cardiac Output
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Electrocardiography
  • Electromyography
  • Exercise*
  • Heart Rate
  • Humans
  • Isometric Contraction*
  • Lower Extremity
  • Male
  • Muscle, Skeletal / blood supply
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology*
  • Time Factors
  • Vascular Resistance
  • Young Adult