Aerobic training and pulse wave velocity in people with normal and elevated blood pressure

Research on chronic aerobic exercise (AE) and arterial stiffness has yielded mixed results, largely due to differences in participant characteristics and training protocols. This meta-analysis included 26 trials (40 interventions; n=756; average age 42±15 years) to assess AE's effect on arterial stiffness, measured by pulse wave velocity (PWV), and to explore moderating factors. AE programs averaged 40±19 minutes/session, 3±1 days/week, over 11±8 weeks, with intensities between 3-8 METs. Random-effects analysis showed AE significantly reduced central (-1.02 m/s), mixed (-0.34 m/s), and peripheral (-0.72 m/s) PWV, with an overall mean reduction of -0.93 m/s, with an overall mean reduction of -0.93 m/s and no differences between arterial beds. However, only a subset of studies showed significant reductions: 9/25 for central, 3/6 for mixed, and 4/8 for peripheral PWV. Studies with higher methodological quality yielded larger effect sizes. Reductions in PWV were consistent across participants with normal or high blood pressure, differing baseline PWV, and both younger and older adults, regardless of blood pressure changes. The impact of training components was inconsistent, suggesting AE benefits across a range of intensities and volumes. Overall, AE appears to reduce arterial stiffness across diverse populations and exercise protocols, supporting its role in improving vascular health.

Publication History

Received: 11 February 2025

Accepted after revision: 01 July 2025

Accepted Manuscript online:
01 July 2025