Isometric Handgrip Exercise for Older Adults with High Blood Pressure: A Feasibility Pilot
Official title: Feasibility of a Community-Integrated Isometric Handgrip Exercise Program and Its Preliminary Effects on Blood Pressure and Cognitive Function in Older Adults
Run by McMaster University · NCT07648498 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a short, supervised handgrip program can be done safely in community settings by older adults with hypertension to see if it helps lower blood pressure and may boost cognitive function.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | McMaster University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Hamilton, Ontario and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 18, 2026 |
| Main results expected | April 15, 2027 |
| Study ends | April 15, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 7, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07648498 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Older adults (65+) with hypertension or elevated blood pressure who are attending the Physical Activity Centre of Excellence at McMaster University and speak English.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with unstable cardiovascular conditions or recent changes to blood pressure medications may not benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a two-arm, 4-week feasibility pilot enrolling adults 65 and older with hypertension at McMaster University. Participants are randomized to one of two handgrip devices (Zona Plus or Squegg) and attend supervised sessions twice a week, performing brief isometric handgrip contractions at 30% of maximum. Feasibility outcomes include recruitment, attendance, retention, and protocol fidelity, while acceptability is explored via questionnaires and exit interviews. Exploratory outcomes look at changes in resting blood pressure and cognitive function from baseline to post-intervention. Safety is monitored for adverse events during the supervised sessions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If feasible and acceptable, this program could offer a simple, low-burden way for older adults with hypertension to participate in activity that might help control blood pressure and maintain cognitive function.
How similar studies have gone: Prior isometric handgrip work has shown physiological effects in some populations, but this specific two-device, community-based feasibility approach is relatively novel in this setting.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 65 years of age or older * Currently attending the Physical Activity Centre of Excellence at McMaster University * English speaking * Diagnosed with hypertension or elevated blood pressure Exclusion Criteria: * Current or prior participation in chronic isometric exercise * Unstable angina. * Uncontrolled hypertension * Uncontrolled heart failure and/or arrhythmias * Recent myocardial infarction or electrocardiography changes * Complete heart block * Carpal tunnel syndrome * Arthritis that may be aggravated by handgrip exercise * Changes to the type and/or dose of blood pressure medications within 3 months of starting the study.
Where it's running
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NeuroFit Lab, Ivor Wynne Centre, McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Recruiting -
Physical Activity Centre of Excellence, Ivor Wynne Centre, McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jennifer Heisz, PhD — McMaster University
- Study coordinator: Ava Neely, BHK
- Email: neelya@mcmaster.ca
- Phone: 4039735863
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.