Effects of Resistance Training on Blood Pressure and Dyspnea in Post-Myocardial Infarction Patients

Background: Myocardial infarction is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, often leading to elevated blood pressure and dyspnea, which hinder recovery. While aerobic exercise is a key component of cardiac rehabilitation, the role of resistance training remains underexplored. Objective: To evaluate the effects of resistance training on blood pressure and dyspnea in post-myocardial infarction patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted, including 133 post-myocardial infarction patients, selected through non-probability convenience sampling from the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Omar Hospital and Cardiac Centre, Jinnah Hospital Lahore, and Mayo Hospital Lahore. Individuals in post-MI recovery, at least three months after diagnosis, aged between 30 to 80 years, both males and females, were recruited in the study. Patients with severe comorbidities, recent myocardial infarction or cardiac events, and those with uncontrolled hypertension or other cardiovascular disease were excluded. After that, written informed consent was obtained from all the participants. Demographic data and resistance training habits were collected using a structured questionnaire. Baseline blood pressure was measured in a seated position at rest using a digital sphygmomanometer, while dyspnea levels were assessed using the Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale. Descriptive statistics summarised categorical variables (like gender, resistance training participation) using frequencies and percentages, while continuous variables (like age, blood pressure, dyspnea scores) were expressed as mean and standard deviation. Independent sample t-tests were performed to compare mean values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure and Borg Scale scores between participants. Results: The resistance training group showed significantly lower blood pressure (resting systolic: -5.40 mmHg, diastolic: -3.29 mmHg; post-activity systolic: -4.37 mmHg, diastolic: -3.70 mmHg; p<0.001). Dyspnea scores were also significantly reduced (rest: -1.11, ADLs: -1.97, exertion: -1.97; p<0.001). Effect size analysis indicated a large impact of resistance training on both outcomes. Conclusion: Resistance training significantly reduces blood pressure and dyspnea in post-myocardial infarction patients, supporting its inclusion in cardiac rehabilitation.