A review article considered 270 randomized controlled trials and concluded that many kinds of physical activity have the potential to lower resting blood pressure. Aerobic activity (movement that gets one’s heart rate up) has long been recommended for blood pressure control and heart health. This analysis shows that, in addition to aerobic activity, different modes of physical activity are also effective. High-intensity interval training, strength training, isometric exercise (tightening muscles without moving joints), and combinations of these have all been found to lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading), diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number), or both.
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