Physical Activity Interventions for The Management of Hypertension: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Abstract Background For all persons with hypertension, the potential benefits of a healthy diet, weight control, and regular exercise cannot be overemphasized. Patients with hypertension should be encouraged to undertake a light-to-moderate intensity exercise programme without needing to consult with their doctor.Aim The purpose of this scoping review was to gain perspective on the specific interventions that worked for hypertension management to have an overall understanding of which type of exercise, frequency, duration, intensity, and time that has an effect in hypertension management.Method A scoping review was conducted according to the methodologically rigorous scoping review approach proposed by Arksey and O’Malley. A search engine was undertaken from Database A-Z: COCHRANE; EBSCOHost: CINAHL Complete, Global Health, and MEDLINE Complete; ProQuest Health & Medical Complete; PubMed; SA ePublications; ScienceDirect; and SCOPUS.Results There were randomised controlled/ experimental studies (N = 31) which fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with successful interventions (n = 9). Duration ranged from minimum of 8 to a maximum 24 weeks, the interventions had the most consistent frequency of 2–3 days/week. Time varied from 20 to 70 minutes per session, and intensity of > 50% in both aerobic and strength exercises elicit positive physiological changes.Conclusion Aerobic exercise programme alone can have the same results as that of a combined exercise programme, which also takes into consideration other physiological aspect.Contribution: This review provided clarifications on when you can prescribe physical activity programme in any settings and how these can have a positive effect in managing hypertension.