Effect of isometric exercise on resting blood pressure: a meta analysis

Dynamic physical exercise (walking, swimming, and so on) is an important component of lifestyle changes to reduce blood pressure; however, many individuals are unwilling or unable to adopt this lifestyle change. Isometric exercise has not traditionally been recommended as an alternative to dynamic exercise and has not been well studied. A meta-analysis of controlled trials of isometric exercise on resting blood pressure was therefore undertaken. Five trials were identified including a total of 122 subjects. Isometric exercise for <1 h per week reduced systolic blood pressure by 10.4 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 6.7 mm Hg. These changes are similar to those achieved with a single pharmacological agent. These results suggest that isometric exercise may be of value as part of lifestyle advice in maintaining a desirable blood pressure. Journal of Human Hypertension (2010) 24, 796-800; doi:10.1038/jhh.2010.13; published online 25 February 2010