The acute hypotensive effect of resistance training performed with machines vs free weights in normotensive men

Abstract AIMS To analyze if different resistance training (machine vs free weight) would have different acute hypotensive effect in active and normotensive individuals. METHODS Fifteen male volunteers (39.2±2.5 years) performed two different resistance exercise protocols, one on machinery and one with free weights for the similar muscle groups and volume (sets x repetitions). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured at rest and during 60 minutes after the sessions. RESULTS There was no interaction between (treatments vs time) for SBP (F 70, 84 = 0.9445, p = 0.595) and DBP (F 70, 84 = 0.5743, p = 0.991). However, significant differences for time for SBP (F 14, 84 = 7.058, p = 0.001) and DBP (F 14, 84 = 3.296, p = 0.001), and treatment for SBP (F 5, 6 = 291.1, p = 0.001) and DBP (F 5, 6 = 13.29, p = 0.003) were varified. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that both resistance training (machine or free weight) induce a similar hypotensive response for SBP in normotensive men.