Impact of Exercise on Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Arterial Hypertension

Abstract

Hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg or being on antihypertensive treatment. BP in excess of 140/90 mmHg is further categorized in terms of severity. Nearly one billion people in the world have hypertension, causing high BP to be the most important risk factor influencing the global burden of disease. The value of regular physical activity in decreasing blood pressure (BP) and improving several other cardiovascular risk factors has been demonstrated in a large number of studies. For this reason, irrespective of the level of BP, all professional organizations and committees recommend lowering of BP and prevention of hypertension in the first instance by lifestyle changes, including exercise. In this chapter, we will first describe the acute BP response during different types of exercise. Subsequently, we will discuss left ventricular performance and dimensions during a single bout of exercise. We will then provide an overview on the evidence on BP and left ventricular structure and function of exercise therapy in the prevention and management of high BP using data from observational studies and randomized controlled trials. Finally, we will outline some screening and safety measures when implementing exercise programmes in hypertensive individuals.