Exercise has a powerful effect on blood pressure, and evidence suggests that it’s as effective as some medications.[1] Exercise seems to reduce blood pressure independent of changes in body weight,[2] but the magnitude of blood pressure reduction will increase if weight loss also occurs.[3]
People with high blood pressure should perform at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week and two resistance exercise sessions.
A growing body of evidence suggests that stress-reduction interventions, such as yoga, meditation, and guided breathing can also decrease blood pressure.[4]