Impact of Time in Motion on Blood Pressure Regulation Among Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review assessed recent evidence on the association between objectively measured physical activity from wearable accelerometers and blood pressure (BP) in participants with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Recent findings: Results directly related to BP were mixed, with some studies showing positive associations and others showing null results. Importantly, several studies noted that participants with MetS demonstrated greater improvements in components of MetS after engaging in higher amounts of daily physical activity. Although this suggests greater volume of physical activity may be a means to partially mitigate hypertension in those with MetS, it remains unclear whether physical activity or inactivity (i.e., sedentary behavior) is more strongly associated with MetS. Although there may be benefit to greater volumes of daily PA among hypertensive patients with MetS, more research is needed to quantify and define the amount of daily activity needed to improve health and refine clinical recommendations. Moreover, although the evidence for improving components of MetS through engaging in physical activity is high, the amount and type(s) of physical activity needed to achieve these benefits is unclear.

Keywords: Accelerometers; Hypertension; Metabolic syndrome; Physical activity.