Analysis by Dr. Joseph Mercola STORY AT-A-GLANCE High resistance Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training (IMST) reduced systolic blood pressure measurements in participants by nine points, with a 45% improvement in endothelial function, increase in nitric oxide and a reduction in markers of oxidative stress and inflammation Preliminary results also suggest it improves cognitive and physical functioning. Researchers were encouraged when 95% of the sessions were completed, far better than the less than 40% who meet the current aerobic exercise guidelines High blood pressure may lead to kidney disease, heart attack, stroke, vision loss, heart failure and sexual dysfunction. It also increases the risk of peripheral artery disease, vascular dementia and brain lesions and tangles associated with Alzheimer's disease Other strategies that may help lower your blood pressure include addressing identified factors that lead to increased blood pressure, such as elevated uric acid and insulin resi