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A review paper recently published by a team that Professor Ian Swaine has been involved with shows the benefits of static strength exercises on reducing elevated resting blood pressure.
The paper was a collaboration between leading sport and exercise researchers from around the world and focusses on the benefits of isometric exercise training (IET) for resting blood pressure. IET involves static strength exercises where you tense muscles without involving body movements, such as resistance bands, handgrip squeezes or wall sits.
The authors reviewed evidence from published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses and found that static strength training reduced elevated resting blood pressure. The effects were similar to those found with other forms of exercise but required much less time than aerobic (e.g., running, cycling etc.) or dynamic resistance exercises (e.g., lifting weights in a gym).
While the studies in the review were primarily rated as good quality, the authors recommend further research that uses more rigorous methodology (e.g., RCTs), and directly compares effects of IET with current recommended exercises in a clinical setting.
Prof Swaine is a member of the School of Human Sciences’ PE and Sport Science team who deliver the PE, sport and exercise science degrees, and is a key member of the Centre for Exercise, Activity and Rehabilitation (CEAR) within the Institute for Lifecourse Development.
The review, published in the leading international journal, Sports Medicine, is free to access at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-024-02036-x.