What happens to systolic blood pressure during exercise?

During exercise, systolic blood pressure increases significantly. This is a physiological response to the increased demand for oxygen and nutrients by the muscles. As you engage in physical activity, your heart rate elevates, leading to a greater volume of blood being pumped with each beat, which in turn raises systolic pressure. This increase is generally a positive indication of the cardiovascular system's ability to adapt to the stresses of exercise.

While diastolic blood pressure typically remains stable or may even show very slight changes, the notable rise in systolic pressure reflects the heightened cardiac output needed during active movement. This response can vary based on the intensity of the exercise and individual fitness levels, but overall, the trend shows a significant increase in systolic blood pressure during exercise.