Hypotensive Effects of High Intensity Resistance Training to Muscle Failure in Hypertensive Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

PURPOSE: Moderate-intensity Resistance Training (RT) has been recommended for blood pressure (BP) control by the main guidelines. However hypotensive effects of high intensity RT using higher loads to muscle failure in hypertensive patients is little know. Therefore, the aim of the study was to verify the behavior of BP after the session of high intensity resistance training in hypertensive women. METHODS: A randomized crossover design clinical trial was conducted with 10 controlled hypertensive women with age equal to: 58.9±6.8, body mass index equal to: 27.1±3.8. The participants performed two experimental protocols: a control session and RT session with 6 repetition maximum (RM) to muscle failure. The order of execution of the sessions was performed randomly by lot. The sessions of 6RM was performed with three exercises (lat pulldown, barbell bench press and 45° leg press) in three sets to momentary concentric failure. During the control session the participants followed of rest in the laboratory. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were collected pre, immediately post, 1 h post, and 24 h post each protocol. Repeated measures ANOVA were used. RESULTS: The SPB decrease in 1 h (124.3 ± 10.8) and 24 h (126.2 ± 13.6) after the 6RM session to muscle failure when compared to pre (135.7 ± 14.1), (p < 0.05). SBP was higher for 6RM (144.7±16.4) than control (134.2 ± 18.1) immediately after session (p < 0.05). There were no differences for DBP among protocols (p ≥ 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The RT using higher loads to muscle failure promote SPB hypotension 1 h and 24 h after the session. No DPB changes were observed after the RT protocols. The high intensity resistance training can decrease the SPB acutely and help in control of blood pressure in hypertensive women.