Studio caso-controllo sugli effetti di un protocollo di allenamento di tre mesi in soggetti anziani ipertesi

Aim. Lifestyle modifications and exercise programs are recommended for prevention and treatment of hypertension. The aim of this case-control study is to assess the effects of a training program on rest and exercise blood pressure and on maximal work capacity of hypertensive sedentary subjects older than 60 years. Methods. 95 subjects completed the training program and 50 subjects formed the control group. The training was directed by specialised trainers. It was performed for three months, three time per week, one hour per session, with at least 30 consecutive minutes of endurance training at moderate intensity. Results. When matched with the control group, the training group reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure at rest. During exercise test the training group increased the work capacity without significant modifications of blood pressure. These results were independent from sex and from pharmacological therapy for hypertension. Conclusion. Differences between control and training group demonstrate the efficacy of this training program. Similar results obtained independently from pharmacological treatment demonstrate the important role of exercise in hypertension management. A three months training program, with three session per week, can reduce blood pressure at rest and improve work capacity, in sedentary older adults with hypertension.