Resistance training improves cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women: systematic review and meta-analysis.
Sonia L Rivera-Mejía, María Rúa-Alonso, Jessica Rial-Vázquez et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of resistance training (RT) on cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. The analysis of 60 studies revealed significant reductions in resting heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean blood pressure following RT. The most notable effect was a moderate reduction in systolic blood pressure (g = 0.68).
Key findings
- RT led to a moderate reduction in systolic blood pressure (g = 0.68, 95% CI [0.40; 0.96]).
- Significant reductions in diastolic blood pressure were observed (g = 0.37, 95% CI [0.11; 0.63]).
- Resting heart rate decreased with RT (g = 0.30, 95% CI [0.02; 0.58]).
- No adverse structural cardiac adaptations were reported from echocardiographic studies.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of resistance training on cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women is crucial, as this population is at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. The findings support incorporating RT into exercise regimens to improve cardiovascular outcomes.