A Report on Blood Pressure Practical: Evaluation and Recommendations

Introduction

In the realm of human physiology, understanding the cardiovascular system's response to various stimuli, including exercise, is paramount. This report delves into a comprehensive blood pressure practical conducted in a human performance laboratory, following the study of the cardiovascular system and its interaction with physical activity. The practical's focus was on monitoring and analyzing the blood pressure of a subject, Evans Kiprono, through different phases: baseline, during strength training, and recovery. The objective is to offer insights into the normal protocol for blood pressure monitoring, evaluate the accuracy of the monitoring tool used, analyze the subject's blood pressure responses, and propose an exercise program beneficial for blood pressure management.

Normal Blood Pressure Monitoring Protocol

The correct procedure for monitoring blood pressure is critical for obtaining accurate readings. The protocol involves several steps to ensure reliability:

1. Preparation: The subject is seated comfortably with both feet flat on the floor, the arm relaxed at the body's side, and the cuff placed snugly on the upper left arm.
   Get quality help now

   

   writer-Charlotte

   Verified writer

   Proficient in: Biology

   4.7 (348)

   “ Amazing as always, gave her a week to finish a big assignment and came through way ahead of time. ”

   

   +84 relevant experts are online

   Hire writer

2. Resting Phase: A quiet rest of 5 minutes precedes any measurement to stabilize blood pressure.
3. Positioning: The arm is positioned so the cuff is at heart level, ensuring a direct flow line from the heart.
4. Measurement: The automated device inflates the cuff, measuring systolic and diastolic pressures alongside the heart rate. Errors necessitate re-adjustment and repetition of the procedure.

Evaluation of the Blood Pressure Monitoring Tool

The practical utilized a Digital Sphygmomanometer. While convenient, its reliance on battery power and potential for inaccuracies with low battery levels highlight its limitations.

The gold standards, mercury or aneroid sphygmomanometers, offer higher precision due to their manual measurement mechanisms that are less prone to electronic discrepancies.

Blood Pressure Response Analysis

Baseline Blood Pressure Values

Kiprono's resting blood pressure was recorded at 129/77 mmHg, with a resting heart rate of 58 bpm. These values fall within normal ranges, indicating a healthy cardiovascular system at rest.

Strength Training Blood Pressure

Post-strength training, a significant rise in systolic blood pressure to 142/77 mmHg was observed, reflecting the cardiovascular system's acute response to increased physical demand. This response aligns with physiological expectations; strength training elevates systolic pressure due to heightened cardiac output and peripheral resistance.

Recovery Blood Pressure

The recovery phase saw a notable reduction in blood pressure to 113/67 mmHg. This phenomenon, known as post-exercise hypotension, underscores the body's adaptation to exercise, featuring enhanced vasodilation and improved blood flow efficiency.

Blood Pressure Response During Aerobic Activity

Contrasting with strength training, aerobic exercise typically induces a more moderated blood pressure response during the activity, attributed to different physiological mechanisms, such as reduced peripheral resistance. The recovery phase post-aerobic activity similarly benefits from reduced blood pressure levels, aiding in overall cardiovascular health.

Exercise Program to Lower Blood Pressure

An integrative exercise regimen combining aerobic with moderate strength training presents a balanced approach to managing and potentially lowering blood pressure. Aerobic exercise, with its capacity to improve cardiovascular efficiency and reduce vascular resistance, forms the cornerstone of this program. Complementary strength training, adapted to individual capabilities and health status, further supports musculoskeletal health without excessively elevating blood pressure. This dual-faceted approach not only targets blood pressure reduction but also enhances overall physical fitness and well-being.

Conclusion

The practical examination of blood pressure in response to exercise provides valuable insights into cardiovascular physiology and the impacts of physical activity on blood pressure dynamics. The findings underscore the importance of employing accurate measurement protocols and tools for reliable blood pressure monitoring. Moreover, the proposed exercise program, emphasizing a balanced mix of aerobic and strength training, offers a viable strategy for managing blood pressure, highlighting the significance of tailored physical activity for cardiovascular health maintenance and improvement. Through such comprehensive analysis and targeted exercise recommendations, individuals can better understand and manage their blood pressure, contributing to long-term health and wellness.