High Blood Pressure – Not Much Exercise Is Needed to Decrease Risk

Only 60-90 minutes of exercise a week can significantly lower blood pressure, according to a group of Japanese researchers. Spread out over a week it only took that much exercise to reduce systolic blood pressure an average of 12 points and the lower or diastolic reading by 8 points. Optimal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80 or lower.

Only 60-90 minutes of exercise a week can significantly lower blood pressure, according to a group of Japanese researchers. Spread out over a week it only took that much exercise to reduce systolic blood pressure an average of 12 points and the lower or diastolic reading by 8 points. Optimal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80 or lower. “This study confirms the importance of exercise,” Dr. Michael Weber, from the American Journal of Hypertension. “The investigators found a person does not have to spend great amounts of time working out.” Kazuko Ishikawa-Takata, from Japan’s National Institute of Health and Nutrition, led the study which tested 207 men and women who had high blood pressure but were otherwise healthy. None of the participants exercised regularly. The subjects were divided into five groups, ranging from no exercise to about 2 and half hours per week. Those in the group that got 60 to 90 minutes of exercise had the greatest drop in blood pressure. They said their findings should encourage people who think they cannot exercise enough to improve their health. (Source: M.S.W.: ZoeMed: Cardiac Life Centre: 30th August 2003)