Isometric handgrip exercise to manage high blood pressure

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of isometric handgrip training on blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. Participants aged 18 to 65 who score low or moderate on physical activity questionnaires will engage in a specific exercise regimen designed to improve vascular health. The study aims to determine the optimal frequency of this exercise to effectively lower blood pressure levels. By focusing on a simple and accessible form of physical activity, the research seeks to enhance adherence among individuals who struggle with traditional exercise recommendations.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged between 18 and 65 years.
* Scoring low or moderate on the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ).
* Previous diagnosis of high blood pressure and/or a resting systolic blood pressure ≥130 but \<180 mmHg (self-reported and confirmed during screening/baseline assessment).
* Currently taking no anti-hypertensive medicine or taking anti-hypertensive medicine with no treatment change within the last 4 months prior to enrollment.
* Stable dietary and physical activity patterns (including dietary supplementation) over the last 4 months

Exclusion Criteria:

* Aged \<18 or \>65 years
* Resting blood pressure ≥180/110 mmHg or resting heart rate \>100 bpm during baseline as-sessment
* Manifest cardiovascular disease including cerebrovascular disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, or advanced retinopathy (fundus hypertonicus grades III-IV) based on a self-report health history questionnaire.
* Type 1 diabetes
* History of other chronic disease including malignancy, neurological conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis) or respiratory conditions (e.g. COPD).
* Contraindications to exercise based on answers to the physical activity readiness questionnaire.
* Physical limitations preventing handgrip exercise (e.g. arthritis or other musculoskeletal disorder)
* Scoring "high" on the international physical activity questionnaire
* Taking more than 2 anti-hypertensive drugs or a change in treatment strategy in the previous 4 months.
* Currently taking nitrate medication (as it is commonly prescribed for angina) or on hormone replacement therapy
* Significant self-reported change in lifestyle patterns in the prior 4 months (e.g. currently on a planned diet for weight loss).

Where it's running

• Swansea University
  Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Richard Metcalfe, PhD — Swansea University
• Study coordinator: Richard Metcalfe, PhD
• Email: r.s.metcalfe@swansea.ac.uk
• Phone: 01792205678

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.