Exercise as it relates to Disease/Continuous and interval aerobic exercises for treating hypertension in older people

This fact sheet will briefly outline appropriate continuous and interval training methods for men and women over 40 years old, and the benefits to health.

Background
Hypertension describes high blood pressure, classified by groups found in table 1. This chronic condition has been reported to affect 29% of the Australian population with the risk of having hypertension rising sharply every decade after we are around 40 years old. Men and women over this age should have their blood pressure checked regularly as persistent hypertension is a risk factor for the development of life-threatening heart, kidney and metabolic conditions. Although hypertension is rarely a direct cause of death, it is a contributing factor in 10.6% of all male and 15.1% of all female deaths in Australia.

Fortunately, it is a treatable condition and medication, diet and exercise have all been shown to be effective at reducing blood pressure. There are many ways to exercise but cardiovascular exercises are a great way to get outdoors, and can be done in many ways which suit your lifestyle. Continuous and interval modes of exercises are both approachable and effective at treating hypertension.

What are continuous and interval training?
Continuous training describes an activity which is performed at a steady pace for the duration of that activity. Interval training is the opposite; using short bursts of alternating high and low intensity levels throughout the duration of the activity.

Benefits of training
Continuous and interval training methods may improve our health in a number of ways, including:
 * DECREASING systolic and diastolic blood pressure,  especially in those with higher blood pressure.
 * DECREASING weight
 * INCREASING exercise capacity
 * INCREASING kidney, lung, and heart function,   glucose and insulin control.
 * INCREASING quality of life.

Research has shown interval exercises may be easier to approach for those with lower capacity to exercise, and may also be more effective than continuous methods at:
 * DECREASING systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
 * INCREASING exercise capacity.
 * INCREASING muscle strength in the elderly.

Recommendations
Depending on the mode of exercise you prefer both continuous and interval exercises are safe and appropriate for most people. Aerobic exercises might include walking, jogging or cycling but could include any cardiovascular activity that you enjoy. Table 2 found below shows how to approach and progress in your chosen mode of activity. To find your desired intensity first calculate your max heart rate (HR) using 220 - your age = maximum heart beats per minute. Desired intensity is then calculated using a percentage max HR in beats per minute. Heart rate can be measured using a personal monitoring device or one of the machines found at the gym.

Considerations before starting exercise
These training methods are suitable for most people over 40 years old. However, there are always some risks when starting a new exercise program and an initial physical assessment, and monitoring can ensure there are no underlying issues that may prevent you exercising. An assessment is especially important if any of the following apply to you: During exercise it is important to wear cool, loose clothes and maintain adequate hydration 17, and avoid stopping exercise suddenly .. Cease exercise if you have an abnormal response, such as:
 * High resting blood pressure: A resting blood pressure of >180 mmHg systolic and >110 mmHg diastolic blood pressure.
 * Age: Men >45 years and women >55 years old with >140 mmHg systolic and >90 mmHg diastolic blood pressure.
 * Sedentary lifestyle: Have little or no physical activity as part of your regular lifestyle.
 * Medications: Beta blockers and diuretics can impede your ability to regulate temperature and engage in activity.
 * Chronic conditions: If you have an underlying long term condition which may affect your ability to participate in exercise.
 * Systolic blood pressure dropping >10 mmHg despite increasing exercise intensity.
 * Systolic blood pressure only rises <30 mmHg during exercise.
 * Blood pressure exceeds >250 mmHg systolic and >115 diastolic blood pressure.
 * You experience chest pain, heart palpitations or shortness of breath beyond expected 17.