Effects of a community aquatic exercise program on blood pressure and functional fitness in older adults

Although physical exercise is an effective non-pharmacological strategy to reduce blood pressure (BP) in older adults, evidence remains limited regarding aquatic and community-based training programs. This study evaluated the effects of an aquatic training program on BP and functional fitness in community-dwelling older adults. This single-arm trial enrolled participants in an aquatic exercise program offered by a university-affiliated public initiative. The intervention lasted eight months (two sessions per week, 45 min per session). Systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and functional fitness (lower- and upper-body strength, lower- and upper-body flexibility, dynamic balance, and aerobic endurance) were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Generalized estimating equations were used to compare outcomes between participants with and without pharmacological treatment for hypertension and between those engaged and not engaged in leisure-time physical activity (LPA). SBP and DBP decreased after training (6/6 mm Hg, p < 0.001). Lower- and upper-body strength also improved (8% and 14%, p < 0.001), whereas no significant changes were observed in flexibility or aerobic endurance. Antihypertensive pharmacotherapy did not appear to influence BP reductions. Analysis by LPA status revealed that SBP decreased only among participants not previously engaged in LPA (-10 mm Hg, p = 0.02). In summary, a low-frequency, community-based aquatic exercise program reduced BP and improved muscle strength in older adults, with greater BP reductions observed in those not engaged in LPA.