Resistance training affects the hemodynamic parameters of hypertensive and normotensive women differently, and regardless of performance improvement

BACKGROUND: Although the positive effects of resistance training (RT) on strength and functional capacity have been well evidenced in the scientific literature, the effects of RT on blood pressure and the relationship of these responses with performance improvement are not yet well established. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze the effects of three and six months of RT on the hemodynamic parameters and functional capacity of hypertensive and normotensive women. METHOD: Sixteen hypertensive and 15 normotensive elderly women participated in a RT protocol designed to increase muscle strength and hypertrophy, lasting six months, twice a week. RESULTS: Systolic blood pressure (SBP) had a reduction at six months only in hypertensive patients, while diastolic blood pressure (DBP) decreased at six months of intervention in both groups (p < 0.05). SBP showed differences between the groups in the pretest (p < 0.05), but not at three and six months of intervention (p > 0.05). Heart rate (HR) was reduced at three months in hypertensive patients, and at six months in the normotensive (p < 0.05). The strength and functional mobility of both hypertensive and normotensive individuals significantly increased at three and six months of intervention (p < 0.05). Hypertensive women showed increased strength at all moments, while normotensive ones showed improvement only at six months. CONCLUSION: Moderate to high intensity RT improves the hemodynamic parameters of hypertensive and normotensive women differently, and independently of strength gain and functional capacity improvement.