Exercise and its effect on cardiovascular diseases have been extensively studied in the elderly population. The difference in blood pressure (BP) between fit and unfit subjects can be >5 mmHg. It is not well established whether the positive effects of exercising on BP are associated with exercise type, be it aerobic or anaerobic (maximal muscle strength).
Hypothesis:
Anaerobic training (maximal muscle strength) causes greater improvements than aerobic training on BP in active older adults.
Study Design:
Clinical trial.
Level of Evidence:
Level 4.
Methods:
This clinical trial was carried out with 202 participants (n = 116 aerobic program [ABPG], n = 86 strength program [SBPG]; 58.05% female; age 67.61 ± 5.01 years). The training program was carried out between 2018 and 2021. Periodic evaluations of BP (systolic BP [SBP] and diastolic BP [DBP]) were conducted with a frequency of twice per year. BP comparisons were made by using 2 × 2 analysis of variance with repeated measurements over the course of the 4 years of the project.
Results:
Throughout the training program, SBPG showed significant and consistent improvements in both SBP and DBP (P < 0.01). On the other hand, the ABPG reported a significant initial improvement (P < 0.01), which was not repeated in subsequent years. BP monitoring carried out over the 4 years showed a decrease in DBP and SBP, with this decrease being more pronounced in SBPG. However, the differences between the groups were not significant (2021; DBP, F = 1.227; P = 0.27; SBP, F = 0.826, P = 0.36).
Conclusion:
Among persons aged ≥65 years, muscle strength training programs appear to be more effective in inducing exercise-related positive changes in BP and cardiovascular risk factors compared with aerobic exercise programs.
Clinical Relevance:
Muscle strength training programs result in favorable changes in BP and cardiovascular risk factors.
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