INFLUENCE OF A STRUCTURED EXERCISE PROGRAM ON BLOOD PRESSURE AMONG ADULTS WITH MILD HYPERTENSION

Abstract

Background: Hypertension remains a leading global health concern, particularly in low and middle income countries where access to treatment is limited. Lifestyle interventions such as exercise are increasingly recognized as cost effective strategies for blood pressure control. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of a structured six week exercise program on resting blood pressure (BP) and resting heart rate (RHR) among adults with mild (Grade 1) hypertension. Methods: An experimental design was employed with 15 hypertensive adults. Participants engaged in supervised sessions combining aerobic and resistance training, lasting 45 minutes, five times per week. Baseline, mid point (3 weeks), and post intervention (6 weeks) measurements of systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and RHR were recorded. Data were analyzed using paired t tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Mean SBP and DBP decreased progressively, with reductions of −2.1/−1.1 mmHg after 3 weeks and −4.6/−3.4 mmHg after 6 weeks. These changes were statistically significant at 6 weeks (SBP p < 0.001; DBP p < 0.05). RHR declined by −3.9 bpm at 3 weeks and −6.9 bpm at 6 weeks, both significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A structured exercise program of moderate intensity effectively reduced blood pressure and resting heart rate in adults with mild hypertension. These findings highlight the potential of exercise as a practical, non pharmacological intervention for hypertension management, particularly in resource limited settings.