Approximately 57% of the adult population is estimated to have hypertension (resting blood pressure > 140/90) or pre-hypertension (Ostchega et al). We’ve all been told that aerobic exercise is a great way to lower blood pressure. However, there is more concern surrounding resistance training especially in individuals with high blood pressure. Given that resistance training causes a rise in both systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure when lifting, some individuals have avoided resistance training for fear of excessive rises in blood pressure. In fact, one study (McDougall, et al.) which measured the blood pressure response to maximal and near maximal leg press exercises in bodybuilders reported maximal values of 480 mm Hg and 350 mm Hg for systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respectively.
Given that hypertension is the primary risk factor for stroke, this concern is justified. However, studies suggest that a resistance training program can be part of a healthy lifestyle even for hypertensives. One study (Kelley & Kelley) analyzed the results of 11 studies which investigated the effect of resistance training on resting blood pressure. Researchers studied 320 subjects with normal blood pressure and hypertension and reported a decrease of 3 mm Hg in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure after at least 4 weeks of resistance training. Another study (Melo et al.) reported a decreased resting blood pressure for 10 hours following a low-intensity resistance training program in hypertensive women taking blood pressure medication. In this study, subjects lifted 40% of their 1 Repetition Maximum (1 RM) performing 3 sets of 20 repetitions.
These and other studies demonstrate that resistance training can be part of an exercise program for hypertensives if performed appropriately. It is important to ask your physician if resistance training is appropriate for you and to find out about any restrictions you may have. The blood pressure response to resistance training depends on a number of factors including the amount of muscle mass recruited, breathing technique, amount of resistance lifted, number of repetitions, speed of lifting and rest between sets. Below are recommendations for resistance training programs for hypertensives (Sorace et al).
In the beginning, it is important for hypertensives to have their blood pressure checked before and after each resistance training session to determine the effect of the program on their resting blood pressure. Taking a blood pressure measure during a lower body seated resistance training exercise is helpful in assessing blood pressure increases during exercise.
If you are taking a blood pressure medication, use caution when moving to a standing or seated position after completing an exercise. Sudden changes in body position can lead to a rapid drop in blood pressure which can cause dizziness.
What are you waiting for? Ask your doctor about a resistance training program and get started on the road to optimal health today!
Kelley, G.A. & Kelley, K.S. (2000). Progressive resistance exercise and resting blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Hypertension, 35, 838-843. Melo, C.M., Alencar, F., Tinucci, T., et al. (2006). Postexercise hypotension induced by low-intensity resistance exercise in hypertensive women receiving captopril. Blood Pressure Monitoring, 11(4), 183-189. McDougall, J.D., McKelvie, R.S., Moroz, D.E. et al. (1958). Journal of Applied Physiology, 58(3), 785-90. Ostchega, Y., Yoon, S.S. & Hughes, J.L. (2008). Hypertension awareness, treatment, and control – continued disparities in adults: United States, 2005-2006. NCHS data brief no. 3. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics: 2008. Available at http://cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db03.pdf Sorace, P., Churilla, J.R. & Magyari, P.M. (2012). Resistance Training for Hypertension. ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal, 16(1), 13-17.