Effects of a Bodypump Training Program on Resting Blood Pressure and Physical Fitness in Sedentary Older Adults With Hypertension

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an eight-week Bodypump® group training program on resting blood pressure and physical fitness in sedentary older adults with hypertension. Bodypump is a choreographed resistance exercise class performed in groups, guided by certified instructors, and accompanied by music. It uses light weights and high repetitions, making it accessible and engaging for older individuals.

Thirty-two participants aged 55 and older with a medical diagnosis of hypertension were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (Bodypump classes, 3 times per week for 8 weeks) or a control group that maintained their usual sedentary behavior.

The main outcome was resting blood pressure (systolic and diastolic). Secondary outcomes included measures of functional fitness assessed using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) battery: lower and upper body strength, aerobic endurance, agility, and balance.

Results showed a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the Bodypump group compared to the control group. Participants also experienced significant improvements in physical performance measures.

This study suggests that structured group-based resistance training programs such as Bodypump are an effective non-pharmacological intervention for improving cardiovascular health and functional fitness in older adults with hypertension.

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Key information

Conditions

Hypertension Cardiovascular Diseases Functional Capacity Older Adults Resistance Training Vascular Diseases

Age range

55 year and older

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Osuna fitness

Osuna, Sevilla, 41640, Spain

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Age over 55 years
Clinical diagnosis of hypertension
Sedentary lifestyle for the past six months
Medical clearance to participate in supervised physical activity
Minimum functional fitness to perform testing and Bodypump exercises

Exclusion criteria

Orthopedic or cardiovascular conditions that contraindicate physical exercise
Unstable or uncontrolled hypertension
Participation in any other structured exercise programme during the intervention
Inability to perform the functional tests or Bodypump sessions safely

Treatment and study plan

Bodypump Training Program

Behavioral

Participants in this group performed a structured 8-week Bodypump program consisting of three sessions per week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), each lasting 45 minutes. The sessions followed the official Les Mills format, incorporating choreographed resistance exercises using barbells, weight plates, and a step platform. All movements were synchronized with music and led by certified instructors. Participants completed high-repetition, low-load exercises (~20% of 1RM) targeting major muscle groups. Exercises were adapted to individual capabilities to ensure safety and promote adherence.

Primary outcomes

Resting Blood Pressure (Systolic and Diastolic)

Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks of intervention.

Change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure measured using an Omron M3 Intellisense automatic monitor. Measurements were taken at baseline and at 8 weeks, following standardized procedures.
Resting Blood Pressure

Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks of intervention.

Change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure measured using an Omron M3 Intellisense automatic monitor. Measurements were taken at baseline and at 8 weeks, following standardized procedures.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Universidad de Extremadura

Other

Registry information

Acronym: BPFIT

Important dates

Study start: 2025
Primary completion: 2025
Study completion: 2025
First posted: Jul 24, 2025
Registry last updated: Aug 1, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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Completed