Effect of isometric exercise on resting blood pressure: a meta analysis

J Hum Hypertens. 2010 Dec;24(12):796-800. doi: 10.1038/jhh.2010.13. Epub 2010 Feb 25.

Abstract

Dynamic physical exercise (walking, swimming, and so on) is an important component of lifestyle changes to reduce blood pressure; however, many individuals are unwilling or unable to adopt this lifestyle change. Isometric exercise has not traditionally been recommended as an alternative to dynamic exercise and has not been well studied. A meta-analysis of controlled trials of isometric exercise on resting blood pressure was therefore undertaken. Five trials were identified including a total of 122 subjects. Isometric exercise for <1 h per week reduced systolic blood pressure by 10.4 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 6.7 mm Hg. These changes are similar to those achieved with a single pharmacological agent. These results suggest that isometric exercise may be of value as part of lifestyle advice in maintaining a desirable blood pressure.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis

MeSH terms

  • Blood Pressure*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Exercise Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / physiopathology
  • Hypertension / therapy*
  • Isometric Contraction*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiopathology*
  • Rest*
  • Treatment Outcome