Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as it is pumped through the body by the heart. It is an important indicator of overall cardiovascular health, as sustained high blood pressure can lead to heart disease and other health problems.
During exercise, blood pressure tends to increase as the body's demand for oxygen and nutrients increases. This increase in demand is met by an increase in blood flow, which leads to an increase in blood pressure. However, the magnitude of this increase can vary depending on the intensity and duration of the exercise, as well as the individual's fitness level and age.
At the beginning of exercise, blood pressure tends to rise rapidly as the heart rate increases and blood flow to the muscles increases. This initial increase in blood pressure is known as the "acute" or "dynamic" response to exercise.
As exercise continues, blood pressure tends to stabilize or even decrease slightly as the body becomes more efficient at delivering oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. This decrease in blood pressure is known as the "chronic" or "adaptive" response to exercise.
In general, people who are fit tend to have a lower blood pressure response to exercise than those who are less fit. This is because their bodies are better able to meet the increased demand for oxygen and nutrients during exercise, resulting in a smaller increase in blood pressure.
After exercise, blood pressure tends to return to baseline levels or even lower, depending on the intensity and duration of the exercise. This decrease in blood pressure is known as the "post-exercise" or "recovery" response.
Overall, the effect of exercise on blood pressure is complex and depends on various factors such as the intensity and duration of the exercise, the individual's fitness level and age, and other factors such as diet and stress. However, regular physical activity is generally associated with lower blood pressure and improved cardiovascular health.