Effects of Interval Training Programme on Resting Heart Rate in Subjects with Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Heart rate (HR) is a determinant of cardiovascular event risk in patient with hypertension. The primary purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of interval training program on HR in black African subjects with hypertension. Methods: Two hundred and forty five male patients with mild to moderate (Systolic Blood Pressure [SBP] between 140-179 & Diastolic Blood Pressure [DBP] between 90¬109 mmHg) essential hypertension were age- matched and grouped into interval and control groups. The interval (work: rest ratio of 1:1) groups involved in an 8-weeks interval training programs of between 45-60 minutes, at intensities of 60-79% of HR max, while the control group remained sedentary during this period. Blood pressure (SBP and DBP), V02max and HR were assessed. Student's t and Pearson correlation tests were used in data analysis. Results: Findings of the study revealed significant effect of exercise training program on HR. Also, changes in V02max negatively correlated with changes in HR (r= -.503) at p<0.05. Conclusion: It was concluded that moderate intensity interval training programs is effective in the non-pharmacological adjunct management of hypertension and may prevent cardiovascular event through the down regulation of HR in hypertension. Keywords: Hypertension; Interval exercise; cardiovascular risk factor; Heart Rat