Abstract

CARVALHO, Joana; MARQUES, Elisa  and  MOTA, Jorge. Acute hemodynamic response during a session of multicomponent exercise in older adults. Rev. Port. Cien. Desp. [online]. 2008, vol.8, n.1, pp.103-113. ISSN 1645-0523.

The aim of the present study was to examine the acute response to a multicomponent session and to identify the specific part of the exercise protocol that induces the major cardiovascular stress. Twenty-seven healthy elderly women (70,6±5,9 years; 63,5±6,2 kg; 155,5±6,4m) were evaluated during a multicomponent training session that included a warm-up, aerobic, strength, balance and coordination exercises and cool-down with stretching exercises. Acute response was evaluated both by measuring heart rate continuously (Polar Vantage NV) during the session and by measuring systolic and diastolic blood pressure with an electronic sphygmomanometer. Data showed that the intensity of the effort during multicomponent training was physiologically safe, performed with an adequate intensity of effort that can induce possible adaptations in the cardiovascular system. On the other hand, the major increase, in heart rate and blood pressure, was observed during the aerobic exercises that involved the participation of larger muscular mass. Results of the present study suggest that, if appropriate techniques are considered, this type of generalized programs can be performed by healthy older subjects. Moreover, the data confirm a higher, but safe, cardiovascular acute response induced by aerobic exercises.

Keywords : aging; exercise; blood pressure; heart rate.

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