Effects of post-aquatic exercise hypotension in older adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Abstract

The effects of aquatic exercise on acute blood pressure (BP) responses in older population remain inconsistent. The objective was to review the literature on the effects of aquatic exercises performed in a vertical position on acute BP responses after exercise in the older adults. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials, published until August 2023, using digital databases (EMBASE, PUBMED, Lilacs, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science). Eight studies with 197 individuals were included for qualitative analysis, and seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. The aquatic exercise reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) by -6.86 mmHg within 1 hour and by -4.14 mmHg for 24 hours post-exercise. However, it did not affect diastolic blood pressure (DBP) responses. Furthermore, subgroup analysis showed that HIIE reduced SBP by -15.50 mmHg and DBP by -5.97 mmHg after the sessions. Already the moderate-intensity continuous exercise reduced SBP by -4.91 mmHg, with no effect on DBP up to 1 hour after the sessions. Subgroup analysis over 24 hours was not possible. Acute aquatic exercise can reduce BP in the older adults, especially SBP. Post-exercise BP reduction is of utmost importance for the older people in preventing cardiovascular diseases, such as arterial hypertension.