Isometric Training Can Help With Hypertension
Leg work may be the exception.
Isometric resistance training is useful, safe and effective as an adjunct therapy for people with hypertension, according to a group of experts and a literature review published in Hypertension Research (2022; doi:10.1038/s41440-021-00839-3). The consensus statement noted that an 8-week isometric resistance training program leads to significant reductions in blood pressure for people with cardiovascular disease and for healthy individuals.
While experts agreed that isometric leg moves such as the wall squat are effective, more research is recommended to determine exact isometric training protocols for healthy individuals and for people with chronic conditions.
See also: Evening Cardio Training and Hypertension
Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA
Shirley Archer, JD, MA, is an internationally acknowledged integrative health and mindfulness specialist, best-selling author of 16 fitness and wellness books translated into multiple languages and sold worldwide, award-winning health journalist, contributing editor to Fitness Journal, media spokesperson, and IDEA's 2008 Fitness Instructor of the Year. She's a 25-year industry veteran and former health and fitness educator at the Stanford Prevention Research Center, who has served on multiple industry committees and co-authored trade books and manuals for ACE, ACSM and YMCA of the USA. She has appeared on TV worldwide and was a featured trainer on America's Next Top Model.
