metalloproteinase-1 levels and blood pressure indices in older women after eight weeks of combined exercise

Background: aging is a pervasive biological process that leads to a gradual and irreversible decline in physical function across all organ systems. the prevalence and severity of hypertension in women increase significantly with age. objectives: this study investigated the effect of combined exercise (fitness and pilates) on metalloproteinase-1 levels and blood pressure indices in elderly women. methods: in this study, a purposive sample of 30 older women in ahvaz was selected from the available community and randomly divided into an exercise group (pilates and fitness) and a control group (daily activity). the experimental group performed the exercise program for eight weeks, three sessions per week. serum levels of metalloproteinase-1 and hemodynamic parameters were measured 48 hours before and after the intervention by elisa using a human kit. paired t-test and analysis of covariance were used to examine changes within and between groups. the significance level was set at p ≥ 0.05. results: after eight weeks of exercise, hemodynamic values (including systolic, diastolic, mean blood pressure, and heart rate) and serum metalloproteinase-1 levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). conclusions: the selected exercise (pilates and fitness) changed hemodynamic indicators (blood pressure and heart rate) and decreased serum metalloproteinase-1 levels in elderly women. this exercise can return blood pressure to normal levels and help with complications.