From this study, High-intensity interval training and hypertension: maximizing the benefits of exercise?:
"Several studies have shown that high-intensity interval training (HIT), which consists of several bouts of high-intensity exercise (~85% to 95% of HRMAX and/or VO2MAX lasting 1 to 4 min interspersed with intervals of rest or active recovery, is superior to Continuous moderate-intensity exercise training CMT for improving cardiorespiratory fitness, endothelial function and its markers, insulin sensitivity, markers of sympathetic activity and arterial stiffness in hypertensive and normotensive at high familial risk for hypertension subjects. This compelling evidence suggesting larger beneficial effects of HIT for several factors involved in the pathophysiology of hypertension raises the hypothesis that HIT may be more effective for preventing and controlling hypertension."
I have been on high blood pressure medication for over 30 years. For the past few years it has taken two blood pressure meds to keep my blood pressure under control. My doctor agreed to take me off one of the meds as long as I monitored it, and I started to exercise again after an eight month hiatus.
I did strength training and did sprint training on a recumbent bike. Both were done in a high intensity fashion - periods of high intensity work with short recovery periods in between. Both acheive 85% to 95% of a heart rate maximum.
I have been checking my blood pressure several times a day for the last six weeks. I shared the numbers with my doctor and he is pleased. We even discussed the possiblity of cutting back the dosage of the remaining medication.
Done correctly both, HIT strength training and HIT using aerobic equipment, will get one's heart rate up near the maximum for one's age. We can show you how to both at Austin Personal Training and at New Orleans Fitness Trainers. Both are safe, effective, and efficient. Using such a program you can expect to feel better and have a dramatic improvement in your health.