Differential Effects of the Type of Physical Exercise on Blood Pressure in Independent Older Adults

Background: 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.