Effects of Dynamic Resistance Training on Arterial Stiffness Assessed by Pulse Wave Velocity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Arterial stiffness predicts cardiovascular risk, but the chronic effects of dynamic resistance training (RT) remain unclear. This meta-analysis quantified RT effects on arterial stiffness assessed by pulse wave velocity (PWV) and explored moderators. Databases were searched through 26 August 2026. Studies included adults (≥19 years) undergoing RT with pre–post PWV data. Random-effects models were used. Fourteen trials included 20 RT interventions and 10 controlled comparisons (n = 379: 278 RT and 101 control participants; age range 19–63 years; mean age, 33.3 ± 14.3 and 32.4 ± 15.1 years in the RT and control groups, respectively; baseline blood pressure range, 108/64 to 137/90 mmHg). Participants were predominantly physically inactive. Assuming a pre–post correlation of 0.50, pooled effects were non-significant for central PWV (g = −0.002; 95% CI, −0.213 to 0.209; p = 0.985), mixed PWV (g = −0.548; 95% CI, −1.168 to 0.071; p = 0.083), peripheral PWV (g = −0.110; 95% CI, −0.436 to 0.217; p = 0.511), and overall PWV (g = −0.102; 95% CI, −0.281 to 0.077; p = 0.265). Heterogeneity ranged from 43% to 70%. Sensitivity analyses using correlations of 0.30 and 0.70 did not alter statistical significance. Most moderator tests, including those involving participant characteristics and FITT-VP components, were not statistically significant. The few significant subgroup differences were exploratory and arose from small, unbalanced groups without multiplicity adjustment, precluding firm conclusions. Dynamic RT was not associated with a significant change in arterial stiffness; however, imprecision and heterogeneity preclude claims of equivalence or absence of physiological effects. Registration: PROSPERO CRD42022377587.