Strength training for breathing muscles to lower blood pressure in postmenopausal women

Inspiratory muscle strength training for lowering blood pressure and improving endothelial function in postmenopausal women: comparison with "standard of care" aerobic exercise

NIH-funded research University of Colorado · NIH-10786067

This study is looking at how a special breathing exercise can help lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel health in postmenopausal women, comparing it to regular aerobic exercise to see which might be easier to stick with and more beneficial for heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10786067 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of inspiratory muscle strength training (IMST) on lowering blood pressure and improving blood vessel function in postmenopausal women. Participants will engage in a novel exercise regimen that involves breathing against resistance, which may offer a more effective alternative to traditional aerobic exercise. The study compares the outcomes of IMST with standard aerobic exercise, focusing on its potential to enhance adherence and long-term benefits. By measuring changes in blood pressure and endothelial function, the research aims to provide insights into better management strategies for cardiovascular health in this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women experiencing elevated blood pressure.

Not a fit: Patients who are not postmenopausal or those with contraindications to exercise may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved blood pressure management and cardiovascular health for postmenopausal women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with inspiratory muscle strength training, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Boulder, 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.