Exploring how exercise and temperature changes affect blood pressure response to stress

Cardiovascular Reactivity to Physical Stress: Strategies and Mechanisms

NA · Western Norway University of Applied Sciences · NCT06319001

This study is testing if short bursts of intense exercise and alternating between hot and cold baths can help people manage their blood pressure better during stress.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment58 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorWestern Norway University of Applied Sciences (other)
Locations1 site (Bergen, Vestland)
Trial IDNCT06319001 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot project investigates the effects of low-volume high-intensity interval training and combined sauna and cold bath sessions on blood pressure responses to physical stress. It aims to understand the mechanisms behind exaggerated blood pressure reactions and whether these interventions can mitigate such responses. Additionally, the study will assess if learning about positive stress expectations enhances the benefits of these interventions. Participants will engage in specific physical activities while their blood pressure responses are monitored.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy males and females aged 18 to 50 who are non-smokers and non-obese.

Not a fit: Patients with cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, or autoimmune diseases, or those taking medications with cardiovascular effects may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new strategies for managing blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular risks associated with stress.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on this combination of interventions, studies on exercise and temperature therapy have shown promising results in managing blood pressure.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male or female between 18 to 50 years
* Non-smoker.
* Non-obese (\<30 kg/m2).
* Able to walk on a treadmill and cycle on a stationary bike without problems.
* No or little (frequency \< 2 times per month) experience swimming with sauna and cold water.
* Proficient in Norwegian and able to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current or previous regular smoker
* Addictions to alcohol or illegal drugs
* Diagnosed with cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, or autoimmune diseases
* Taking prescription medication with known cardiovascular effects
* Judgment by a medical provider that exercise, heat therapy, or hydrotherapy poses an undue burden or risk.
* Cognitive or psychiatric impairment
* Lack of proficiency in Norwegian language oral or writing skills that will hamper the ability to participate in the interventions and fill out questionnaires.

Where this trial is running

Bergen, Vestland

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Blood Pressure, Stress, Physiological, Cardiovascular reactivity, Neural control of blood pressure, Metaboreflex, Cold pressor response

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.