why systolic pressure increases
In a healthy person with a ânormalâ systolic pressure of 120 mmHg, vigorous aerobic fitness training can increase systolic pressure to 180 mmHg and take 10-20 minutes to return to resting levels. With most types of training there is minimal change in diastolic blood pressure. Blood pressure changes with incremental exercise are shown on the following diagram. The higher the intensity of exercise, the greater the rise in heart rate will be, and consequently the larger the increase in systolic blood pressure. This is an important factor when considering the best type of training for beginners or those with cardiovascular risk factors.