Hypertension is not uncommon in childhood and adolescence; vascular and renal causes
predominate. Non-pharmacologic therapy, including exercise, may lower blood pressure
(BP). There are several articles relating to the use of exercise as a therapy for
high BP. Most of these show a beneficial effect. The (dose) of exercise remains undetermined.
There are no known data stating that dynamic exercise is of significant risk in childhood
or adolescence. A multicenter trial of exercise is proposed to define the intensity,
duration, and frequency of sessions needed to obtain optimal BP control.
Hypertension, dynamic exercise, static exercise, non-pharmacologic therapy.
