A scientific study conducted in Britain has found that isometric exercises, including leaning against a wall while holding the position for a period of time, may help lower blood pressure without relying on the usual repetitive movements used in strength training. These exercises involve remaining in a single position while tensing the body’s muscles for a specified period.
Study sample and participating British universities
The study involved 100 adults with an average age of 37, none of whom had blood pressure problems. It was conducted by researchers from several British universities, including Canterbury Christ Church, St Mary’s and Keele, as well as University College London. Its findings were published in a scientific journal specialising in sports medicine.
The researchers asked 80 volunteers to perform wall-sit exercises three times a week. After four weeks of training, participants recorded a 9.5-point reduction in systolic blood pressure compared with the group that did not perform isometric exercises.
The results also showed that reducing the training frequency to just once a week, rather than three times, led to a 6.6-point reduction in systolic blood pressure compared with the volunteers’ readings before the trial began. Researchers involved in the study said that doing the minimum amount of these exercises could provide tangible benefits, making them a practical option for people who do not have enough time to exercise.
How the exercises may help blood flow
The research team said that isometric exercises may help relax the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily.
The researchers also stressed the need for further studies to verify the validity of their findings.
