Effects of Exercise on Blood Pressure, Pulse and Respiratory Rates in Young Normotensive Subjects

Nwozor C.M., and Ukpai .M.
Department of Physiology
Anambra State University
E-mail: corneliusnwozor@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Worldwide aerobic exercise is being promoted for its beneficial effect on health, especially the cardiovascular system. Physical exercise enhances or maintains physical fitness and overall wellness. This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of exercise on blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rates in young normotensive subjects. Ninety-nine male subjects participated in the study. They were randomly assigned into three groups of thirty-three subjects each. Group A completed 30 minutes of exercise by jogging. Group B did 30 minutes of exercise by riding bicycle ergometer, while Group C completed 30 minutes of exercise by walking. Using a digital automatic blood pressure monitor, blood pressure and pulse rate were taken at rest and immediately after exercise. Respiratory rate was counted at rest and immediately after exercise. The data were recorded and analyzed. Results showed that exercise significantly elevated the systolic blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rates in groups A, B and C. There was little or no effect on diastolic blood pressure. The increase in systolic blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rates was more in group A (jogging) than in group B (bicycle ergometer) and lastly group C (walking). The information provided by this study should be regarded as a valuable baseline data that could be helpful in creating safe exercise plans and healthy lifestyles in our environment.