Aerobic exercise is the exercise of choice for people with hypertension.
Studies have shown that the pace does not have to be strenuous to have a positive effect on elevated blood pressure levels. It appears that the higher a person's blood pressure is, and the more sedentary he or she is, the greater the benefits of a regular exercise program. If your blood pressure is only moderately elevated, ask your doctor if you can start a daily walking program, lose a few pounds, restrict sodium, and have your blood pressure checked in two months. If your hypertension is severe, your doctor probably will want you to take medication and increase your activity level at the same time. When the blood pressure level in a previously sedentary person returns to normal with medication and exercise, the doctor's job is to taper the medication to determine if it's still needed.