Impacto del programa de ejercicio físico UMUCARDIO sobre la presión arterial y la salud general en trabajadores de la Universidad de Murcia

In Spain, arterial hypertension affects more than 40% of the adult population. This condition is particularly prevalent among individuals in sedentary job positions, such as university staff. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze the effects of a physical exercise program on blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) and the physical and psychological health of university workers. The sample consisted of 12 participants (10 men and 2 women), employees of the University of Murcia, aged between 47 and 62 years, who participated in the “UMUCardio” program. A quasi-experimental study with pre- and post-intervention assessments was conducted. Participants attended a cardiovascular health improvement exercise program two non-consecutive days a week for 4 months. Data were collected using the SF-12 questionnaire and a model M3 sphygmomanometer (OMRON brand). After the intervention, significant improvements (p < 0.05) were observed in general health with a 26% increase in scores, and in physical and mental health by 23% and 28%, respectively. Additionally, there was an average decrease of 8 mmHg and 5 mmHg in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Therefore, the implementation of a specific physical exercise program for employees at the University of Murcia to improve hypertension leads to better hypertension levels as well as improvements in physical, psychological, and general health.