Resistance Exercise Training in Chronic Kidney Disease

Effect of Resistance Exercise Training on Endothelial Function and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

The investigators aim to evaluate the feasibility of a resistance exercise training program among individuals with CKD and its impact on endothelial and vascular function.

Resistance exercise training has been shown to improve cardiovascular health including endothelial function in general populations, but studies in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are limited. The investigators aim to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a resistance exercise training program among individuals with CKD and its impact on endothelial and vascular function as measured by brachial artery flow-mediated dilation, pulse-wave velocity and carotid artery stiffness. To accomplish this goal the investigators propose to conduct a 12-week pilot randomized controlled trial of twice a week resistance exercise training among 32 adults with CKD. The results of this study will inform the design and implementation of a larger trial evaluating the impact of resistance exercise training on adverse outcomes in patients with CKD including CKD progression.

Inclusion Criteria:

• CKD stage 3 or 4 (eGFR 15-60 ml/min/1.73m2)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently institutionalized
• Kidney transplant or dialysis
• NY Heart Association class 3-4 heart failure
• Dementia or cognitive impairment
• Unstable angina or coronary revascularization within the last 3 months
• Uncontrolled arrhythmia
• Severe chronic lung disease
• Orthopedic, neurologic or other condition that would preclude resistance exercise training
• Pregnancy
• Uncontrolled hypertension (systolic > 160 mmHg and diastolic >90 mmHg)