The Effect of Different Exercise Modes and Intensities on Blood Pressure in African Americans Group: a Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

Regular exercise participation has been known to lower blood pressure for decades. However, despite the positive hemodynamics and adaptations that see changes in the cardiovascular system and encouraging outcomes, there are controversies around the effects of the different exercise intensities on blood pressure (BP). We do not fully understand which intensity would be more suitable for persons with hypertension (HTN), specifically if they have been sedentary for a long time. The intensity undertaken to exercise is often overlooked and might contribute to poor exercise adherence. Few studies have conducted a large sample of minorities to understand how different exercise intensity affects their BP recovery. Minority populations like African Americans are underrepresented in clinical studies despite experiencing more HTN and participating less in physical activity. Non-compliance to exercise with African Americans could contribute to the exercise intensity, specifically for newer exercisers.

Objectives

The systematic review aimed to explore studies that examined post-exercise BP response in African American adults and highlight the different exercise intensities and modes. The aim of this study was to investigate and determine which exercise intensity could produce the most optimal results for BP control in African Americans.

Methods

A systematic literature search was carried out with two databases from 2000 to 2010, searching for relevant manuscripts related to exercise involvement with African Americans. The age was limited to 19 years and older, with geographic location restricted to studies from the United States, given the population reviewed. The exercise mode could include outdoor walking with a pedometer device, treadmill walking/jogging, cycling or stationary cycling, weight training, aerobic exercise, or low to high workload.

Results

Two hundred and seventy-nine articles we found, with 270 excluded. In total, nine papers met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Seven papers saw significant outcomes in BP, with two not reporting meaningful differences from baseline to post-exercise. The most common exercise mode was walking at moderate intensity, specifically among female participants.

Conclusions

The review found low to moderate or moderate intensity was favourable to reducing post-exercise BP in African Americans. The outcomes have implications in prescribing exercise interventions where the intensity or mode of training can be altered, expanding the beneficial effects of exercise on BP.

Keywords

African Americans / Exercise intensity / Exercise mode / Blood pressure

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