Blood Pressure and Blood Glucose Responses to Combined Exercise Sessions of Different Intensities in Individuals with Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to verify the acute effects of blood pressure and blood glucose after two sessions of combined exercise sessions performed at two levels of intensity in trained individuals with cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods: Eighteen individuals (66.22 ± 8.61 years) of both sexes (6 women/12 men) with cardiovascular risk factors performed two sessions of combined exercises at different levels of intensity: moderate (MOD) and high (HI). To control the intensity of the aerobic training, the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale was used. For the strength training, the maximum number of repetitions was carried out within a predetermined duration of sets. Blood pressure and blood glucose measurements were collected before and 20 minutes after the sessions. The data were analyzed using Generalized Estimating Equations, α 5%.

Results: Reductions were observed in systolic blood pressure (MOD - Δ = -4.95 mmHg; HI - Δ = -3.31 mmHg) and blood glucose (MOD - Δ = -16.06 mg/dL; HI - Δ = -29.45 mg/dL) after the two sessions, with no difference between sessions. Diastolic blood pressure did not change (p < .05).

Conclusion: Combined exercises sessions of moderate or high intensity can promote an acute reduction in systolic blood pressure and glycemia in individuals with cardiovascular risk factors.

Keywords: Aging; blood pressure; exercise; glucose.