It is also inversely related to stroke.S5.2.3-34 S5.2.3-36 A higher level of potassium seems to blunt the effect of sodium on BP,S5.2.3-37 with a lower sodium potassium ratio being associated with a lower level of BP than that noted for corresponding levels of sodium or potassium on their Likewise, epidemiological studies suggest that a lower sodium potassium ratio may result in a reduced risk of CVD as compared with the pattern for corresponding levels of either cation on its own.S5.2.3-39 5.2.4. Physical Fitness Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an inverse relation- ship between physical activity and physical fitness and level of BP and hypertension.S5.2.4-40 Even modest levels of physical activity have been associated with a decrease in the risk of inci- In several observational studies, the relationship between physical activity and BP has been most apparent in white men.S5.2.4-40 With the advent of electronic activity trackers and ABPM, it has become increasingly feasi- ble to conduct studies that relate physical activity and BP.S5.2.4-42 Physical fitness, measured objectively by graded exercise testing, attenuates the rise of BP with age and prevents the development of hypertension. In the CARDIA (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults) study,S5.2.4-43 phys- ical fitness measured at 18 to 30 years of age in the upper 2 deciles of an otherwise healthy population was associated with one third the risk of developing hypertension 15 years later, and one half the risk after adjustment for body mass index, as compared with the lowest quintile. 