Does Working Out Increase Blood Pressure?

During exercise, heart rate increases and muscles contract, which put a strain on blood vessels and can greatly increase blood pressure; however, the American Heart Association states that consistent, moderate exercise -- both aerobic and resistance training -- cause a long-term drop in resting blood pressure.

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is the force exerted by flowing blood on the walls of blood vessels and varies over the course of a heartbeat. When measured, a physician will take into account both the highest (systolic) and lowest (diastolic) blood pressures. Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure of the blood between heartbeats, when the heart fills with blood. When the heart beats, however, it sends a surge of blood through the veins that increases pressure; this is the systolic blood pressure. As the blood travels through the veins, away from the heart, blood pressure gradually decreases to the diastolic level.

During Exercise

During exercise, particularly during aerobic exercise, heart rate gradually increases. Because systolic blood pressure is dependent on the action of the heart, it generally rises as a result of the increased heart rate. Diastolic blood pressure, on the other hand, tends to stay constant -- or may even drop -- during exercise. After exercise, blood pressure will progressively drop with an active recovery or will drop rapidly with a passive or sedentary recovery. Additionally, resistance exercise, such as lifting weights, narrows blood vessels and causes significant increases in blood pressure.

Long-term Effects of Aerobic Exercise

While blood pressure may rise during a period of exercise, numerous studies have found a link between aerobic exercise and a long-term lowering of blood pressure. According to "The Exercise-Health Connection" by David Nieman, 30 to 45 minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week can lead to a 6 to 10 mmHG drop in diastolic blood pressure and a 8 to 10 mmHG drop in systolic blood pressure. Results appeared within a few weeks and persisted with consistent exercise.

Long-term Effects of Resistance Exercise

A 2000 study for the American Heart Foundation, found a moderate link between lowered blood pressure and resistance training. They found that an average of 40 minutes of light weightlifting three days a week can lead to a 2 percent to 4 percent reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, this effect is less pronounced than that of aerobic exercise. Additionally, resistance training may be a poor choice for those with high blood pressure, as systolic blood pressure may increase to as high as 320 mmHG during exercise.