Even though research on other ways to lower blood pressure has been conducted for decades, exercise remains one of the most effective treatments for high blood pressure. Regular exercise can lower blood pressure for a long time with a single workout. According to the American College of Sports Medicine’s guidelines on exercise and hypertension, low- to moderate-intensity exercise is as beneficial as higher intensity exercise in reducing blood pressure in people with hypertension. An analysis of 15 studies on exercise and high blood pressure concluded that 75 percent of hypertensive individuals can lower their blood pressure through exercise. What is the best type of exercise? The Sports Medicine Journal suggests aerobic exercise as the best method for lowering blood pressure. Any activity that gets your heart rate up will do. You can walk briskly, swim, cycle, or dance. Physical activity of at least 30 minutes a day, plus strength training on two days a week, is recommended by the American Heart Association.
