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Saturday, 26 September 2026dailybeirut.com
Health
A new analysis published in FCM reveals that aquatic workouts significantly reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in older adults.
A study conducted by Chinese scientists and published in the journal FCM indicates that practicing water-based exercises helps lower blood pressure among elderly individuals. The research team analyzed findings from four randomized trials focusing on aquatic physical activity and its health impacts.
The investigators clarified that these exercises involve physical routines performed in a swimming pool, such as walking, aerobics, and other training movements. They explicitly distinguished this regimen from ordinary swimming, emphasizing the structured nature of the activities involved.
Data from the analysis showed that these specific workouts reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of approximately 11 mmHg. Diastolic blood pressure decreased by about 6 mmHg, while pulse rates dropped by roughly six beats per minute. All observed changes were statistically significant.
Researchers noted that exercising in water stimulates the cardiovascular system without imposing stress on joints, unlike traditional land-based sports. This characteristic makes it a suitable option for older adults, positioning aquatic training as a promising addition to hypertension treatment strategies.
An earlier study by scientists at the Federal University of São Paulo had demonstrated that swimming benefits heart health more than running. That research highlighted that swimming exerts a stronger influence on microRNA activity compared to running. MicroRNAs are molecules responsible for regulating cell growth, forming blood vessels, and protecting the heart from damage.
