Aerobic physical activity based on fast walking does not alter blood pressure values in non-dipper essential hypertensives

Abstract

Aim: Walking is a very acceptable form of aerobic exercise. Several trials have demonstrated significant benefits of fast walking on the risk factors of cardiovascular disease, particularly for hypertension. Aim of our study was to assess whether physical activity obtained through fast walking might lead to a different reduction of blood pressure levels in hypertensive patients in relation to different circadian profile of blood pressure.

Methods: We have enrolled 84 hypertensive patients, with evidence of stage I hypertension and non-dipper nocturnal profile. All subjects underwent a six weeks physical intervention based on fast walking, three sessions a week. Main outcome measurements were diurnal, nocturnal and 24-h blood pressure levels.

Results: After the sixth week of physical exercise there was not any significant change in 24-hour mean systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure ABPM values when compared to baseline (respectively 143.2±5.2 vs. 141±4.4 and 91.4±4.8 vs. 90.1±2.5); also no differences in heart rate have been found.

Conclusion: In non-dipper hypertensives a light aerobic program of physical activity based on fast walking seems to be less effective to reduce blood pressure values, contrary to what has been observed in dipper ones.