Effects of Isometric and Isotonic Lower Limb Circuit Exercises on Cardiovascular Responses in Young Adults

Abstract

Introduction: The study aims to investigate the immediate effects of isometric and isotonic lower limb circuit exercises on young adults. Materials and Methods: 100 subjects were recruited within the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All subjects underwent both lower limb isotonic and isometric circuit exercises which consist of squats, front lunge, standing leg raise and lateral lunge. A baseline heart rate, blood pressure and ECG were measured. After the completion of each circuit exercises, the cardiovascular parameters were measured again. Results: A significant increase of systolic blood pressure (SBP) was observed after isotonic circuit exercises (p<0.05). Significant decrease of diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was observed after isometric lower limb circuit exercise (p<0.05). Heart rate (HR) was seen to increase significantly after both isometric and isotonic lower limb circuit exercise. Significant QT shortening was also observed after isometric and isotonic lower limb circuit exercise (p<0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings showed that the blood pressure and heart rate did not increased excessively after both isometric and isotonic lower limb circuit exercises. The reduction of DBP recorded after both isometric and isotonic circuit exercises is a positive finding and this signifies that there is a decrease of peripheral resistance post exercise.