A long-term, comprehensive exercise program that incorporates a variety of physical activities improved the blood pressure, lipid and glucose metabolism, arterial stiffness, and balance of middle-aged and elderly Japanese.

A 6-month, twice-a-week exercise program emphasizing swimming was conducted for 11 men (57-73 years) and 24 women (51-68 years). The control group comprised 11 male (59-70 years) and 11 female (53-70) volunteers. The exercise program significantly improved the systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP) and lipid and glucose metabolism, with no change in the controls.