Comparing High-Intensity Interval and Moderate-Intensity Continuous Heated Water Exercise on Blood Pressure and Heart Health in Older Adults with Hypertension

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of high-intensity interval training HIIT versus moderate-intensity continuous exercise MICE, both done in heated water, on blood pressure and other related heart and vessel functions in older adults with hypertension. The study focuses on understanding how these two types of exercise impact hemodynamic and autonomic responses in this population, who often face challenges in exercising due to comorbidities or injuries. This research aims to provide insight into effective exercise strategies for managing hypertension in older individuals. The trial includes 60 participants over 60 years old with hypertension, randomly assigned to one of three groups HIIT, MICE, or a control group with no exercise. Exercise sessions are conducted in heated water at 30 to 32 C, with participants submerged up to the chest level. The HIIT program involves a warm-up followed by intervals of jogging or running alternating with walking, while the MICE program consists of continuous walking or jogging at moderate intensity. The control group remains seated in heated water without exercising. The exercise programs last for 12 weeks, followed by a 12-week observation period without exercise. Participants undergo evaluations before, during, and after the intervention, including blood pressure, arterial stiffness, endothelial function, heart rate variability, and physical and functional capacity tests. Quality of life is also assessed using questionnaires. Researchers monitor adherence to the exercise programs and measure changes in these variables after 12 and 24 weeks. The primary outcome is the change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after 12 weeks of exercise.

High-Intensity Interval Versus Moderate-Intensity Continuous Water Based Exercise in Hypertensive Older Individuals