Effects of isometric exercise on blood pressure in inactive adults

Beliefs and Expectation Effects on Blood Pressure Following Isometric Exercise in Inactive Adults

Not applicable Interventional Canterbury Christ Church University · NCT06937164

This study is testing whether doing isometric exercises can help lower blood pressure in adults who don't usually exercise.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 55 Years
SexAll
SponsorCanterbury Christ Church University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Canterbury, Kent)
Trial IDNCT06937164 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of isometric exercise training (IET) on blood pressure in physically inactive adults. Participants will engage in lab-based sessions where they perform isometric leg extensions while their blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle activity are monitored. The study aims to evaluate both the immediate and long-term effects of IET on cardiovascular health, particularly focusing on post-exercise hypotension. By understanding these effects, researchers hope to clarify the mechanisms behind blood pressure reduction through isometric exercise.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are physically inactive and not currently engaged in structured exercise.

Not a fit: Patients with hypertension requiring medication or those with contraindicating health conditions will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new, accessible method for lowering blood pressure in sedentary individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential benefits of isometric exercise for blood pressure reduction, suggesting this approach may be promising.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years or older
* Self-reported physically inactive or insufficiently active (not meeting current physical activity guidelines)
* Not currently engaged in structured resistance or isometric exercise training
* Able to attend lab sessions over a 4-week period
* Provides written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current diagnosis of hypertension requiring medication
* Any known cardiovascular, neurological, or musculoskeletal condition contraindicating isometric exercise
* Formal education or professional background in exercise science, physiology, or a related field
* Pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study period
* Inability to follow verbal instructions or complete study protocols

Where this trial is running

Canterbury, Kent

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions HypertensionElevated Blood PressureSedentary LifestlyeIsometric ExerciseBlood PressurePost-Exercise HypotensionPhysical InactivityHeart Rate Variability
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.