Therapeutic effect of a moderate intensity interval training program on the lipid profile in men with hypertension: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE: Physical inactivity has been established as a major primary risk factor for the development of hypertension. Also, factors such as elevated total cholesterol (TC) and reduced high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) have been implicated as risk factors for coronary events in hypertension. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of interval training program on blood pressure and lipid profile of subjects with hypertension. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 245 male patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension (systolic blood pressure [SBP] between 140 and 180 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure [DBP] between 90 and 109 mmHg) were age matched and grouped into interval and control groups. The interval (n=140; 58.90 ± 7.35 years) group was involved in an 8-week interval training (60-79% HR max reserve) program of between 45 minutes and 60 minutes at a work/rest ratio of 1:1 of 6 minutes each, while the control hypertensive (n=105; 58.27 ± 6.24 years) group remained sedentary during this period. Cardiovascular parameters (SBP and DBP), VO 2 max, TC, HDL, and artrogenic index (AI) were assessed. Student's t-test and Pearson correlation test were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Findings of the study revealed significant decreased effects of the interval training program on SBP, DBP, TC AI, and significant increased effects on VO 2 max and HDL level at P<0.05. There was also a significant correlation between changes VO 2 max and changes in AI. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the interval training program is an effective adjunct nonpharmacological management of hypertension and a means of upregulation of HDL.