Effects of aerobic exercise on arterial distensibility

Abstract

The age-related decrease in arterial distensibility, particularly central arterial distensibility, may increase systolic blood pressure and/or pulse pressure in the elderly. Previous studies have shown that daily physical activity is positively related with arterial distensibility, and that aerobic exercise training could improve arterial distensibility. Some likely biological mechanisms through which aerobic exercise improves arterial distensibility have been revealed. Thus, habitual physical activity and aerobic exercise training may retard age-related changes in the arteries, and prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in the elderly. However, more studies targeting diverse groups are needed to clarify the optimal use of aerobic exercise training in the management of arterial distensibility.