Low Dose Resistance Exercise: A Pilot Study Examining Effects on Blood Pressure and Augmentation Index Between Intensities

Introduction: The effects of resistance exercise on vascular function are unclear. Aim: To investigate the acute haemodynamic (blood pressure and augmentation index) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) response to two types of resistance exercises of equal workload—a set of unilateral 35% of one repetition maximum (1RM) quadriceps extension and a set of unilateral 70% 1RM quadriceps extension. Methods: Twenty two young healthy males completed both exercises on separate days. Heart rate, central and peripheral systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), augmentation pressure, augmentation index (AIx), augmentation index at a heart rate of 75 beats per minute (AIx75), and RPE were measured using applanation tonometry before exercise, immediately after exercise, 5 min after exercise and 15 min after exercise. Results: AIx75 was significantly lower 5 min after exercising at 35% of 1RM than 70% of 1RM. Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower at 5 min post exercise for both intensities. There was no significant difference in RPE between conditions or time points. Conclusions: Results suggest that changes in blood pressure and augmentation index vary depending on the intensity of resistance exercise regardless of the volume of exercise carried out. Changes in AIx75 in response to resistance exercise may be independent of changes in BP.