THE HYPOTENSIVE EFFECT OF AEROBIC EXERCISE: A SHORT REVIEW

Abstract

One of the major causes of death in Brazil is associated with cardiovascular problems. The reduction of pressure levels, even in normotensive people, is an important factor to minimize the risk of heart disease. A well accepted way for treating arterial hypertension is primary prevention with the execution of physical exercises that, according to literature, decrease pressure levels at rest in hypertensive individuals. This review is proposed to check the influence of aerobic exercise on blood pressure behavior in hypertensive individuals, discussing the physiological aspects involved in pressure reduction and ratifying the benefits and characteristics of aerobic exercise on health promotion. Accordingly, it was sought to build this article by reviewing the literature that deals with such issue. Some reports presented in this review have showed that aerobic exercise, either acute or chronic, appears to decrease blood pressure levels in normotensive and particularly in hypertensive patients. There is evidence to believe that aerobic exercise serves as a non-pharmacological treatment strategy and may change lifestyle, what is essential for the prevention, treatment and control of hypertension. DESCRIPTORS: Blood Pressure. Aerobic Exercise. Cardiovascular Diseases.