Circadian changes in flexibility in adult volunteers

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the circadian changes in flexibility in adults volunteer. Methods: Twenty-four subjects (12 males), 29.18 (±4.58) years old and physical activity index (PAI) of 3.3 (±26) points, realized seven measurements (8h, 12h, 12h post-meal, 16h, 20h, 20h post-meal, and 24h) over 24 hours. Results: The diastolic blood pressure (P=0.008) increased at 20h, and systolic blood pressure (P=0.002) at 16h and at 20h. Levels of flexibility were lower (P<0.001) on wakening. After the meal the flexibility reduced approximately 5% (P<0.001). Volunteers with low PAI had lower levels of flexibility (P=0.032), but these were the largest ever earlier in the day. Conclusion: The circadian rhythm produces changes in cardiovascular reactivity and flexibility. Volunteers with low physical activity and the males have higher gains of flexibility in the early hours of the day.