A new method to strengthen breathing muscles to lower blood pressure and improve brain function.

Novel time-efficient inspiratory muscle strength training for lowering systolic blood pressure and improving endothelial, cerebrovascular, and cognitive function

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11122935

This study is testing a new breathing exercise program that helps lower blood pressure and boost brain health, and it's designed for anyone looking to improve their overall well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11122935 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach called high-resistance inspiratory muscle strength training (IMST), which aims to lower systolic blood pressure and enhance cognitive and cerebrovascular function. Participants will engage in a time-efficient training program designed to strengthen the muscles used for breathing. The study will assess the effectiveness of this intervention on various health outcomes, including blood pressure and brain health, using advanced physiological techniques. The research is led by Dr. Daniel H. Craighead at the University of Minnesota, focusing on integrating lifestyle changes to improve overall health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are looking to manage their blood pressure and enhance their cognitive health.

Not a fit: Patients with severe respiratory conditions or those unable to participate in physical training may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a simple and effective method for patients to lower their blood pressure and improve cognitive function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar interventions aimed at improving cardiovascular and cognitive health through lifestyle changes.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.