Metalloproteinase-1 Levels and Blood Pressure Indices in Older Women After Eight Weeks of Combined Exercise

Abstract

Background: Aging is a pervasive biological process that leads to a gradual and irreversible decline in physical function across all organ systems. The prevalence and severity of hypertension in women increase significantly with age. Objectives: This study investigated the effect of combined exercise (fitness and pilates) on metalloproteinase-1 levels and blood pressure indices in elderly women. Methods: In this study, a purposive sample of 30 older women in Ahvaz was selected from the available community and randomly divided into an exercise group (pilates and fitness) and a control group (daily activity). The experimental group performed the exercise program for eight weeks, three sessions per week. Serum levels of metalloproteinase-1 and hemodynamic parameters were measured 48 hours before and after the intervention by ELISA using a human kit. Paired t-test and analysis of covariance were used to examine changes within and between groups. The significance level was set at P ≥ 0.05. Results: After eight weeks of exercise, hemodynamic values (including systolic, diastolic, mean blood pressure, and heart rate) and serum metalloproteinase-1 levels were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The selected exercise (pilates and fitness) changed hemodynamic indicators (blood pressure and heart rate) and decreased serum metalloproteinase-1 levels in elderly women. This exercise can return blood pressure to normal levels and help with complications.