Postural influence on postexercise hypotension: a randomized crossover study of supine, seated, and standing recovery
Jacob Laufenberg1, Megan Bratetic1, Kannon Jacobson1
1Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
Background:
Postexercise hypotension (PEH) is a well-established cardiovascular benefit of acute exercise, yet the influence of recovery posture on hemodynamic mechanisms remains understudied. This study investigated how different recovery positions affect postexercise cardiovascular responses.
Methods:
Ten healthy adults (23.1±6.8 years, Body Mass Index [BMI] 24.5±3.7 kg/m2) completed a randomized crossover trial comparing four conditions: control (no exercise), and high-intensity interval exercise followed by supine, seated, or standing recovery. Cardiovascular parameters of blood pressure, heart rate, stroke volume, and systemic vascular resistance were measured continuously for 60 minutes postexercise.
Results:
Standing recovery produced the greatest heart rate increase (61.5%) versus supine (18.5%, P<0.001). Stroke volume showed significant condition × pre-/postexercise interactions (F
Conclusions:
Recovery posture significantly influences postexercise cardiovascular responses through gravitational effects on blood distribution. Standing recovery attenuates hypotensive benefits due to orthostatic stress, while supine recovery optimizes acute blood pressure reduction.
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