PHYSICAL EXERCISE TO REGULATE AND/ OR IMPROVE HYPERTENSION

Aim. The aim of this paper is to analyze the role of physical exercise in regulating and improving arterial hypertension. This study focuses on evaluating the evidence supporting physical exercise as a preventive and therapeutic tool. Methods. A narrative review of the scientific literature was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases. Articles published between 2000 and 2021 were considered, with inclusion criteria targeting studies that examined the relationship between physical activity and hypertension. Results. The findings across the selected studies consistently highlight the benefits of physical exercise in both prevention and management of hypertension. Longitudinal cohort evidence showed that low exercise capacity is an independent risk factor for progression from prehypertension to hypertension. Large-scale epidemiological data demonstrated that hypertensive adults are less likely to meet physical activity guidelines compared to normotensive individuals. Expert consensus emphasized the importance of structured aerobic and resistance training as first-line treatment, with vigorous exercise considered safe under medical supervision Conclusions. The cumulative evidence indicates that physical exercise is a powerful and reliable non pharmacological strategy to regulate and improve hypertension. Aerobic exercise provides the strongest blood pressure–lowering effects, particularly when complemented with resistance training. Prescriptions must always be individualized, with moderate intensity recommended as standard, although vigorous activity can be tolerated when clinically supervised. The combination of exercise programs with pharmacological treatment appears to offer the most effective and sustainable outcomes for long-term management of hypertension and overall cardiovascular health. Keywords: Hypertension, Physical exercise, Blood pressure, Cardiovascular health, Prevention.