Aqua Therapy: Can Water Workouts Turn Back the Clock on High Blood Pressure?

Soraya Malik in Health & Wellness April 2025 • 5 min read.

"Discover how thermo-mineral spring water exercise could be a game-changer for managing hypertension in aging women and why you should consider diving in."

Water immersion and hydrotherapy, commonly known as exercise in warm water, are popular recreational and therapeutic activities, particularly beneficial for elderly individuals. With studies showing that approximately one-quarter of Iranian adults are hypertensive, and with hypertension's prevalence increasing with age, innovative approaches to managing this condition are crucial. Traditionally defined as a persistent resting blood pressure at or above 140/90 mmHg, hypertension's control has been a significant focus in cardiovascular health.

The importance of hydrotherapy in managing hypertension has increasingly gained recognition. Evidence suggests that water-based exercises positively affect hypertension, leading researchers to explore how controlled temperature swimming pools can reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Studies indicate that regular exercise in these conditions can lead to significant improvements in both clinic and 24-hour systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels, marking a promising step forward in alternative hypertension management.

Building on these findings, there is growing interest in understanding how different types of water and their mineral compositions affect physiological functions. While temperature and hydrostatic pressure are known factors, the specific impact of mineral substances in water is less clear. Research into waters rich in CO2 and NaCl suggests potential benefits in reducing blood pressure fluctuations, pointing to the sedative effects of such mineral interactions on the cardiovascular system. This emerging field calls for deeper investigation into how hydrotherapy in mineral-rich waters can optimize cardiovascular parameters, especially for those seeking gentler yet effective treatments.

Thermo-Mineral Spring Water: A Natural Ally Against Hypertension?

A recent study published in the Journal of Women & Aging explores the effects of exercise training in thermo-mineral spring water on hemodynamic and health-related factors in young-older hypertensive women. Conducted by Hamid Arazi, Reyhaneh Asadi, and Behzad Taati, the research investigates the potential benefits of an 8-week aerobic training program in mineral geothermal water.

Implications and Future Directions

The findings of this study underscore the potential benefits of integrating thermo-mineral spring water exercise into health management programs for postmenopausal hypertensive women. The reduction in systolic blood pressure, coupled with improvements in heart rate, body composition, and aerobic fitness, highlights a comprehensive approach to improving cardiovascular health. This type of exercise is particularly appealing because it is gentle, accessible, and can be easily incorporated into a wellness routine, making it a sustainable option for long-term health management. However, it's important to note that this study focused on a specific group of women in a particular geographic location. While the results are promising, they may not be generalizable to all populations. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and access to similar resources could influence the effectiveness of this treatment. Therefore, future studies should aim to include diverse groups of participants across different regions to validate these findings and explore the potential impact of environmental and cultural variables.