Isometric handgrip exercise to manage high blood pressure
The Dose Response Effect of Isometric Handgrip Training Frequency on Blood Pressure and Vascular Health in People With Hypertension: A Randomised Controlled Trial
This study tests if doing isometric handgrip exercises can help lower blood pressure in adults with high blood pressure who don't exercise much.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Swansea University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Swansea, Wales) |
| Trial ID | NCT06335433 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with a diagnosis of high blood pressure and low to moderate physical activity levels.
Not a fit: Patients with severe hypertension or existing cardiovascular diseases may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a simple and effective method for managing high blood pressure, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive effects of physical activity on blood pressure, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Swansea, Wales
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.