Effects of Isometric Handgrip Exercise Training on Systemic Arterial Stiffness, Cardiovagal Baroreflex Sensitivity, and Cognition in Treated Adults with Hypertension: A Pilot Study

Hypertension is associated with accelerated vascular aging and progressive loss in cognitive function. We conducted a pilot study to explore the effect of isometric handgrip (IHG) exercise training in adults treated for hypertension, an effective method for blood pressure (BP) control in this cohort, on cardiovascular and cognitive function. Eight (8) treated hypertensive adults performed four 2-min alternating unilateral IHG contractions at 30% of maximum 3 days/week for 8 weeks. Arterial stiffness [carotid-toe-pulse wave velocity (ctPWV)], cardiovagal baroreflex sensitivity (cvBRS) and tests of cognition (Trail-Making Test, Controlled Oral Word Association Task) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Systolic BP (p = 0.003) and ctPWV (p = 0.035) were reduced, and cvBRS increased (p = 0.041) following 8 weeks of IHG exercise training. Trail Making Test Part A time was reduced following IHG exercise training (p = 0.019). Although preliminary, this is the first study to show improved systemic arterial stiffness and cvBRS with IHG exercise training. We also provide evidence for possible enhanced post-training visuoperceptual speed. This work provides the foundation for a future randomized controlled trial to replicate and expand upon these outcomes; the findings of which could offer tremendous public health benefits.