Blood Pressure Following Isometric Exercise in Inactive Adults

Launched by CANTERBURY CHRIST CHURCH UNIVERSITY · Apr 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how a specific type of exercise, called isometric exercise training (IET), can affect blood pressure in adults who are not regularly active. Isometric exercises involve pushing against a fixed object without moving—like pushing down on a wall. The goal of the study is to see both the short-term and long-term effects of this exercise on heart health, especially in people who may have high blood pressure or are at risk because they lead a sedentary lifestyle.

To participate, individuals must be at least 18 years old and should not currently be engaging in regular exercise or resistance training. They will attend lab sessions for four weeks, where they will perform seated leg exercises while their blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle activity are monitored. The study aims to understand better how this exercise might help lower blood pressure and improve heart health over time. It's an exciting opportunity for those looking to explore non-drug methods to manage their blood pressure!

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 18 years or older
• • Self-reported physically inactive or insufficiently active (not meeting current physical activity guidelines)
• • Not currently engaged in structured resistance or isometric exercise training
• • Able to attend lab sessions over a 4-week period
• • Provides written informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Current diagnosis of hypertension requiring medication
• • Any known cardiovascular, neurological, or musculoskeletal condition contraindicating isometric exercise
• • Formal education or professional background in exercise science, physiology, or a related field
• • Pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study period
• • Inability to follow verbal instructions or complete study protocols