The role of interval training in the physical rehabilitation of strength sports athletes with hypertension: a randomized controlled study

Abstract

To evaluate the effect of high-intensity interval aerobic work on blood pressure and body composition in strength sports athletes of heavy weight categories. The examination and physical rehabilitation of 55 strength sports athletes of heavy weight categories with arterial hypertension were performed. Athletes were randomized into two groups: the main group (n=35) and the control group (n=20). The main group athletes trained 120 days (3 times a week) on a bicycle ergometer according to the high-intensity interval protocol, and the control group participants trained 120 days (3 times a week) according to their traditional strenght protocol. All athletes underwent a complex examination, including: a survey, examination, three-time measurement of blood pressure, bioelectrical impedance analysis and calculations of body composition indices, Before and after the physical rehabilitation. After 120 days of physical rehabilitation, there was an improvement in body composition and a significant decrease in blood pressure: systolic blood pressure by 4.7%, diastolic blood pressure by 5.6%. High-intensity aerobic interval work, regardless of the athlete's body composition, has a therapeutic and prophylactic effect on the cardiovascular system. The aerobic workout training protocol taking into account metabolic variables, that we developed, will allow athletes to effectively and safely influence the prevention and treatment of hypertension.