In a nutshell
This study investigated the effects of various levels of activity on blood pressure in patients with hypertension (high blood pressure).
They found that light physical activity was associated with reduced blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
Some background
Physical activity is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. Patients with hypertension are encouraged to engage in moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) to help reduce blood pressure .
Some studies indicate that light physical activity may also help reduce blood pressure. The impact of intensity and duration of physical activity on blood pressure has not been examined.
Methods & findings
This study investigated the pattern and intensity of physical activity in patients with hypertension.
87 patients diagnosed eith hypertension participated in the study. Patients were asked to wear an accelerometer (measures activity intensity and duration) for a 7-day period. Blood pressure was measured at the beginning and end of the study. Arterial stiffness (stiffness of the arteries flowing into and out of the heart) was also measured.
Patients that spent a greater amount of time doing sedentary (non-physical) activity had higher blood pressure. Patients that spent more time doing light physical activity had lower blood pressure. There was no difference in arterial stiffness in either group.
The bottom line
This study concluded that light physical activity is associated with reduced blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
The fine print
79% of the patients in this study were female. The results may not extrapolate to the wider male population.
What’s next?
Please discuss your level of physical activity with your doctor if you have concerns regarding blood pressure management.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Dec 30, 2015
