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Postexercise hypotension reduces cardiovascular responses to stress
J B Boone1, M M Probst, M W Rogers
1Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Robinson Center, Kansas University, Lawrence 66045.
Journal of Hypertension
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Regular exercise can lower blood pressure, attenuating the cardiovascular response to psychological stress. This postexercise hypotensive effect reduces blood pressure reactivity to stressors like the Stroop task.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Exercise Science
- Stress Response
Background:
- Psychological stress is a known contributor to hypertension development.
- Aerobic exercise is believed to offer a protective effect against stress.
- A single bout of aerobic exercise temporarily lowers blood pressure post-activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cardiovascular reactions to psychological stress during the postexercise hypotensive period.
- To assess if prior exercise modifies blood pressure responses to a cognitive stressor.
Main Methods:
- Eight borderline hypertensive individuals underwent three randomized trials: Stroop task alone, Stroop task post-exercise, and exercise alone.
- Exercise involved 60 minutes at 60% maximal oxygen uptake.
- Blood pressure and heart rate were continuously monitored throughout trials and recovery.
Main Results:
- The Stroop task significantly increased mean arterial pressure (MAP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).
- These increases were significantly blunted when the Stroop task was performed post-exercise.
- During post-exercise recovery, significant reductions in MAP and SBP were observed, with no significant DBP changes.
Conclusions:
- An acute exercise bout induces a period of reduced blood pressure (postexercise hypotension).
- During this period, the blood pressure reactivity to psychological stress is significantly attenuated.
- Exercise may be a viable strategy to mitigate cardiovascular risks associated with stress.