Stretching, isometrics, and aerobic exercise for decreasing blood pressure post-exercise: a randomized crossover study.

Abstract

We compared stretching, isometrics, and aerobic exercise for effectiveness in decreasing blood pressure post-exercise. Using a randomized crossover design, 5 males and 4 females (21.3 years; normotensive) participated in four 30 min sessions on separate days: static stretching (30 s stretches, major muscle groups), isometric exercise, aerobic cycling (75% VO₂peak), and control (rest), with blood pressure and heart rate measured before exercise (or rest) and for 60 min post-exercise (or rest). Aerobic exercise and stretching decreased post-exercise systolic blood pressure (∼10 mmHg each) (p < 0.05), whereas isometric exercise and the control condition did not significantly decrease post-exercise blood pressure. Stretching is similar to aerobic exercise for reducing blood pressure post-exercise. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06628635.