Abstract

Background: Physical inactivity is a major risk factor and aerobic exercise is protective for cardiovascular health. Aim: To determine the effects of aerobic exercise on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in children, adolescents and adults. Material and Methods: We studied 13 children aged 10 +/- 1.9 years, 13 adolescents aged 14.3 +/- 1.5 and 55 adults aged 41 +/- 11.5 years. Participants completed 60 minutes of aerobic exercise in one session. Body weight, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and resting heart rate were measured before and after the exercise period. Results: Adult men and women experienced a significant decrease in body weight after exercise (-8 and -6%, respectively). No significant changes in weight were observed in children and adolescents. After exercise systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly in children (-8.3 and -5.4% respectively), adolescents (-7.6 and -8.4% respectively) and adults (-7 and -5.1% respectively). Conclusions: A 60 minute period of aerobic exercise is associated with a reduction in blood pressure in children, adolescents and adults.