Functional Capacity, Hypertension, Older Adults, Resistance Training
Conditions
Brief summary
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an eight-week Bodypump® group training program on resting blood pressure and physical fitness in sedentary older adults with hypertension. Bodypump is a choreographed resistance exercise class performed in groups, guided by certified instructors, and accompanied by music. It uses light weights and high repetitions, making it accessible and engaging for older individuals. Thirty-two participants aged 55 and older with a medical diagnosis of hypertension were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (Bodypump classes, 3 times per week for 8 weeks) or a control group that maintained their usual sedentary behavior. The main outcome was resting blood pressure (systolic and diastolic). Secondary outcomes included measures of functional fitness assessed using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) battery: lower and upper body strength, aerobic endurance, agility, and balance. Results showed a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the Bodypump group compared to the control group. Participants also experienced significant improvements in physical performance measures. This study suggests that structured group-based resistance training programs such as Bodypump are an effective non-pharmacological intervention for improving cardiovascular health and functional fitness in older adults with hypertension.
Interventions
BEHAVIORALBodypump Training Program
Participants in this group performed a structured 8-week Bodypump program consisting of three sessions per week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), each lasting 45 minutes. The sessions followed the official Les Mills format, incorporating choreographed resistance exercises using barbells, weight plates, and a step platform. All movements were synchronized with music and led by certified instructors. Participants completed high-repetition, low-load exercises (\ 20% of 1RM) targeting major muscle groups. Exercises were adapted to individual capabilities to ensure safety and promote adherence.
Sponsors
Universidad de Extremadura
Study design
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
55 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* Age over 55 years * Clinical diagnosis of hypertension * Sedentary lifestyle for the past six months * Medical clearance to participate in supervised physical activity * Minimum functional fitness to perform testing and Bodypump exercises
Exclusion criteria
* Orthopedic or cardiovascular conditions that contraindicate physical exercise * Unstable or uncontrolled hypertension * Participation in any other structured exercise programme during the intervention * Inability to perform the functional tests or Bodypump sessions safely
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Resting Blood Pressure (Systolic and Diastolic) | Baseline and 8 weeks of intervention. | Change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure measured using an Omron M3 Intellisense automatic monitor. Measurements were taken at baseline and at 8 weeks, following standardized procedures. |
| Resting Blood Pressure | Baseline and 8 weeks of intervention. | Change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure measured using an Omron M3 Intellisense automatic monitor. Measurements were taken at baseline and at 8 weeks, following standardized procedures. |
Countries
Spain
Outcome results
None listed