from Journal of Physical Activity and Health
High blood pressure—also known as hypertension—is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. It is also among the top preventable risk factors for early death. Walking has long been the most common prescription to reduce blood pressure. However, a new study from the Journal of Physical Activity and Health suggests stretching may be more effective than walking. Authors say everyone thinks stretching is just about stretching your muscles, but when you stretch your muscles, you’re also stretching all of the blood vessels that feed the muscles. Including arteries. Further, if you reduce stiffness in your arteries, there is less resistance to blood flow—meaning lower blood pressure.