Physical training program in arterial hypertension. A long-term prospective follow-up

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Exercise Physiology
• Hypertension Management

Background:

• Chronic hypertension affects a significant portion of the population.
• Lifestyle modifications, including exercise, are crucial for managing hypertension.
• Long-term effects of structured exercise on hypertensive patients require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term effects of a comprehensive training program on blood pressure and other physiological parameters in hypertensive women.
• To assess the impact of varying exercise intensities and training cessation on cardiovascular health.

Main Methods:

• A 30-patient, multi-phase training study was conducted on female patients with stage I-II hypertension.
• Participants underwent periods of training at 70% maximal heart rate, detraining, and increased intensity training.
• Physiological parameters including resting and exercise blood pressure, heart rate, VO2max, and double product were monitored every 3 months.

Main Results:

• Resting blood pressure significantly decreased with training (182/114 to 161/97 mm Hg) and increased upon detraining (161/97 to 179/115 mm Hg).
• Exercise blood pressure and double product also decreased significantly with training.
• Physical working capacity and VO2max showed a positive correlation with training intensity.

Conclusions:

• Long-term exercise training is effective in reducing blood pressure and improving cardiovascular parameters in hypertensive women.
• The benefits of exercise on blood pressure are reversible upon cessation of training.
• Progressive increases in training intensity may offer further, though not statistically significant, reductions in blood pressure.