Faster versus controlled weight training after a kidney transplant

Effects of Velocity-Based Resistance Training on Renal Function and Metabolic Health in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Fundación Universitaria del Area Andina · NCT07370727

This trial will test whether doing resistance exercises quickly versus more slowly for 12 weeks improves kidney health, metabolic markers, and strength in adults who have had a kidney transplant.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment12 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorFundación Universitaria del Area Andina Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bogotá, Bogota D.C.)
Trial IDNCT07370727 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial assigns kidney transplant recipients to one of two 12-week resistance training programs that differ by execution velocity: maximal intended velocity versus submaximal controlled velocity. Sessions include supervised multi-joint exercises (squat, bench press, overhead press) on a Smith machine with individualized loads (20–60% 1RM) and velocity monitored by a linear encoder. Primary outcomes are renal function (serum creatinine, eGFR, BUN, uric acid) and metabolic markers (HDL, triglycerides, glucose, waist circumference, blood pressure), while secondary outcomes include muscle strength, force–velocity profile, anthropometry, physical activity, fitness perception, and immunosuppressive medication adherence. The protocol requires medical clearance and targets stable transplant recipients at least 12 months post-transplant.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults 18–50 years old who had a kidney transplant at least 12 months ago, have stable graft function, and have nephrologist clearance for moderate-to-vigorous exercise are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: People older than 50, with unstable graft function, diabetes, recent coronary disease, active infection, severe musculoskeletal limitations, or using contraindicated immunosuppressants may not benefit or be eligible.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve kidney-related blood tests, metabolic risk markers, and muscle strength and function for transplant recipients.

How similar studies have performed: Velocity-based resistance training has shown strength and metabolic benefits in athletes and some clinical populations, but its application in kidney transplant recipients is novel with limited prior data.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Men and women aged 18 to 50 years.
* Kidney transplant performed ≥12 months before enrollment.
* Stable graft function in the previous 6 months (serum creatinine \< 1.5 mg/dL, no rejection episodes).
* Written medical clearance from a nephrologist to perform moderate-to-vigorous physical activity.
* Signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active autoimmune disorders.
* Recent coronary disease (≤6 months).
* Severe musculoskeletal limitations incompatible with resistance training.
* Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (pre- or post-transplant).
* Current active infection.
* Use of immunosuppressive drugs with contraindications for exercise (e.g., mTOR inhibitors at baseline).

Where this trial is running

Bogotá, Bogota D.C.

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 Kidney Transplant RecipientsMetabolic SyndromeCardiovascular Risk FactorsKidney TransplantRenal TransplantVelocity based resistance trainingMetabolic HealthExercise Intervention
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.