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image of Impact of Strength Training on Blood Pressure in Older Hypertensive Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Introduction

Controlling high blood pressure in older adults is essential for managing cardiovascular risk, as outlined in major guidelines around the world. This study aimed to investigate the effects of strength training on blood pressure in older individuals with hypertension.

Methods

This meta-analysis followed the PRISMA guidelines and PICOS strategy. The databases used were MEDLINE ( PubMed), Web of Science, Scopus, and SciELO. The tools used for assessing risk of bias and methodological quality were Rob2 and TESTEX. In the meta-analysis, RevMan 5.4 software was employed.

Results

After the search process, 8,760 publications were identified, and 6 RCTs were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The average age of the population was 69 years, and the total number of participants in the CG and EG was 134 and 191, respectively. The average training volume (VT) was 68 minutes per session, three times a week, over 11 weeks of intervention. In the SBP variable, the forest plot presented 6 studies and 7 analyses. The mean difference (MD) -10.32 (-19.23 to -1.41) (I2 = 95%, < 0.00001), indicating an improvement in SBP (= 0.02). In the DBP variable, =6 studies and 8 analyses were included. The MD was -5.42 [-8.67 to -2.11], (I2 = 88%, < 0.0001). Therefore, the mean result differed significantly from zero ( = 0.001), indicating improvement in the DBP variable.

Discussion

The mechanisms of blood pressure reduction through aerobic training have been widely investigated. However, there is a lack of studies focusing on strength training. One possible explanation for this result is that strength training increases the synthesis of Nitric Oxide (NO), which induces vasodilation.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis concluded that strength training reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure in older hypertensive individuals.

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2026-01-06
2026-02-26

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Impact of Strength Training on Blood Pressure in Older Hypertensive Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Bentham Science Publishers ; https://doi.org/10.2174/0115734021411110251113064207
/content/journals/chyr/10.2174/0115734021411110251113064207
/content/journals/chyr/10.2174/0115734021411110251113064207
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keywords: systolic ; older ; Blood pressure ; diastolic ; physical exercises ; strength training

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