Isometric Handgrip Exercise for Blood Pressure Management

Cardiovascular Response to Isometric Resistance Training in People With Hypertension for Blood Pressure Management

Recent meta-analyses suggest isometric resistance training (IRT) may be superior to aerobic exercise for lowering blood pressure. The investigators intend to conduct the largest, longest, prospective, double-blind randomized controlled trial using isometric resistance training to reduce blood pressure to reduce hypertension.

We are looking to assess the effect of isometric exercise on ambulatory blood pressure in participants aged 40-70 years who are either pre- or mild hypertensive; either un-medicated or taking medication to control their blood pressure. Our secondary aims are to examine whether the size of blood pressure change is different in those people taking or not taking anti-hypertensive medication, to determine the anti-hypertensive mechanism to IRT, and to establish rate of de-training effects after participants have ceased IRT.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Blood pressure above 120/80 currently not taking anti-hypertensive medications whose doctor has suggested would benefit from exercise; and
• people currently taking beta blockers for blood pressure management.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Younger than 30yrs and older than 70 yrs;

• unable to voluntary participate;

• unable to participate under doctor's recommendation;

• smokers;

• arthritis or carpal tunnel which may be aggravated with handgrip exercise;

• known cardiovascular disease (angina) and the following co-morbid conditions:

  • obesity,
  • insulin resistance,
  • depression,
  • mobility impairment,
  • sleep apnoea,
  • fatty liver disease or
  • renal disease