The effects of Resistance Exercise on Arterial Stiffness and Vascular Regulatory Factors in Elderly Men Aged 65 to 70 years

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effects of resistance exercise on arterial stiffness and vascular regulatory factors in elderly men aged 65 to 70 years. Arterial stiffness variables, namely Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) and Augmentation Index (AIx), were measured using the SphygmoCor Xcel device, while vascular regulatory factors such as Nitric Oxide (NO) and Endothelin-1 (ET-1) were assessed through blood analysis. After a 12-week resistance exercise program, the arterial stiffness of the experimental group showed significant improvement overall. The PWV, which indicates the speed of blood flow through the arteries, significantly decreased in the experimental group post-exercise, and the AIx, which analyzes the amplitude and wavelength of arterial pressure, also showed a significant reduction in the experimental group. These changes indicate an increase in arterial elasticity and improved cardiovascular function. Furthermore, the enhancement of endothelial cell function suggests an increased elasticity of the vascular endothelium, thereby reducing the potential risk of vascular diseases. Regarding the vascular regulatory factors NO and ET-1, the level of NO in the experimental group significantly increased, while the level of ET-1 significantly decreased. This outcome predicts that the improved vascular dilation function is correlated with the opposing substrates of these two substances, leading to a reduction in the stiffness of the vascular endothelium, which can accommodate a larger influx of blood flow. It also suggests an improvement in the flow-mediated dilation response of endothelial cells in reaction to exercise stress.<br/> Therefore, resistance exercise in this study is presented as an effective program for enhancing cardiovascular function in elderly men aged 65 to 70 and improving the overall health status of older adults.