Effect of home-based isometric handgrip exercise with a commercially available device on blood pressure in older adults with hypertension: A randomized controlled trial.

Abstract

Isometric handgrip exercise may help reduce blood pressure, but its effectiveness using inexpensive, home-based devices remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of home-based isometric handgrip exercise on resting systolic blood pressure (SBP) in hypertensive older adults. Secondary outcomes included diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), grip strength, safety, and satisfaction. A randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Comprehensive Geriatric Clinic, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand. Thirty hypertensive participants aged over 60 with handgrip maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) of 10-40 kg were randomized into two groups. The intervention group (n = 15) performed isometric handgrip exercises using spring devices at 20-50% MVC. The control group (n = 15) performed non-resistive handgrip exercises. Both groups exercised 3 times/week for 8 weeks (4 sets of 2-minute holds, 1-minute rest between sets). The intervention group showed significant reductions in SBP (-7.33 ± 9.63 mmHg, P = 0.011) and DBP (-3.6 ± 5.79 mmHg, P = 0.03). Grip strength improved in both groups, but only SBP reduction showed a significant between-group difference (-8.19 mmHg, P = 0.03). No complications were reported, and satisfaction was high in the intervention group. Home-based isometric handgrip exercise using commercial spring devices at 20-50% MVC significantly reduced SBP in hypertensive older adults. It is a simple, safe, and affordable exercise option, suitable for those unable to perform standard aerobic activities.