Study Finds 1,345 Patients Cut Blood Pressure Within 24 Hours With HIIT and Aerobic-Resistance Exercise
Updated
Updated · Prevention Magazine · Jun 1
Study Finds 1,345 Patients Cut Blood Pressure Within 24 Hours With HIIT and Aerobic-Resistance Exercise
3 articles · Updated · Prevention Magazine · Jun 1
Summary
A meta-analysis of 31 studies covering 1,345 people with hypertension found HIIT and aerobic exercise combined with resistance training significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure over 24 hours.
The review, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, highlighted 24-hour monitoring as a stronger measure than a single clinic reading and found meaningful reductions after four-week exercise programs.
Cardiologists said exercise likely works by improving blood-vessel flexibility, regulating the nervous system, and reducing inflammation, insulin resistance and oxidative stress that can raise arterial pressure.
Hypertension affects about 45% of U.S. adults, with roughly half not adequately controlled, leaving higher risks of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.
Doctors said the findings strengthen advice to use structured exercise alongside other non-drug steps such as lower sodium intake, less alcohol, better sleep and reduced pollution exposure.