Effect of Aerobic Exercise at Different Intensities on Intraocular Pressure in Young Males.

Abstract

High intensity aerobic exercise significantly reduced intraocular pressure in healthy young male adults. This study sought to determine how aerobic exercise at various intensities affects intraocular pressure (IOP) in young adults. A repeated measures design was adopted. A group of 20 volunteers (mean age: 21.24±1.73y) took part in this study. IOP was measured with a tonometer (iCare TA01i, Icare Finland, Finland). Subjects completed 4 cycle ergometer sessions. During the first session, power was increased by 60W every 3 minutes until exhaustion, corresponding to peak power. For the 3 following tests, each lasting 25 minutes, subjects exercised at intensities of 50%, 70%, and 85% of peak power, respectively, and measurements were taken every 5 minutes. IOP, as determined using a tonometer, was the primary measure. There was a significant reduction ( P <0.05) in IOP of both eyes during the 25 minutes high-intensity (85%) exercise test. There were also significant interactions between exercise durations and intensities. During high-intensity exercise, IOP, blood pressure, blood lactate, and the rating of perceived exertion were significantly related ( P <0.01). These data show a significant reduction in IOP at high-intensity aerobic exercise, which may have implications for the management of ocular health.