Efficacy and moderators of isometric resistance training (IRT) on resting blood pressure among patients with pre- to established hypertension: a multilevel meta-review and regression analysis

IRT was efficacious in reducing resting SBP, DBP, and MAP in individuals with pre-hypertension to established hypertension. The antihypertensive effects of IRT may be moderated by factors such as age, sex, medication status, baseline BP, and training variables (e.g., intensity, modality, recovery), underscoring the need for individualized and well-controlled applications in practice and research. A protocol recommends IRT at 30-60% MVC (gradually increase) or wall squat IRT at approximately 85%-95% HRpeak, performed 3-5 sessions per week for 14 min per session (4 × 2 min contractions with 2 min recovery).