NCT06042439 · Michigan State University
AM vs PM Exercise Training
What this study is about
The treatment of high blood pressure, or hypertension, is multifaceted and can include pharmacological therapies (i.e., medications) and lifestyle modifications such as physical activity.
View original scientific description
The treatment of high blood pressure, or hypertension, is multifaceted and can include pharmacological therapies (i.e., medications) and lifestyle modifications such as physical activity. Chronotherapy, which describes timing of a treatment with the body's daily rhythms, has recently been used with hypertension medications and has been shown to be effective at lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease events. Specifically, taking medications in the evening was shown to be more effective than morning medication routines. Little information is available about the effectiveness of chronotherapy combined with exercise (i.e., planned physical activity) interventions in older adults with hypertension. The purpose of this study is to examine how exercise training performed in the morning and early evening affects blood pressure and other measures of blood vessel health in postmenopausal females with hypertension.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
6 weeks of exercise training (Pre-training)
handgrip and treadmill walking 4 days per week
BEHAVIORAL
6 weeks of exercise training (Post-training)
handgrip and treadmill walking 4 days per week
Primary outcome measures
Nocturnal systolic blood pressure (BP)
Time frame: 6 weeks
Change in systolic nocturnal BP (Pre-training - Post-training)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Systolic BP equal to or greater than 130 mmHg without BP medication or greater than 120 mmHg with medication and diastolic blood pressure equal to and greater than 80 mmHg
- 55-80 years old
- Post-menopausal female
- Able to walk without assistance
Exclusion criteria
- Habitually physically active defined as 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week
- Overt pulmonary disease/condition as follows: chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, or pulmonary hypertension
- Cardiometabolic disease/condition as follows: diabetes, heart failure, peripheral arterial disease, stroke, coronary artery disease, renal disease, secondary hypertension, chronic venous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis within last 6 months
- Cancer within last 5 years
- Body mass index \>39 kg/m2
- Current smoking or vape
- Evening shift work
- uncontrolled thyroid disorder
- 2 or more falls in the last year
- Anemia within 3 months of enrollment
- Parkinson's disease
- Unstable angina
- Acute pulmonary embolus or infarction
- Acute myocarditis or pericarditis
- Acute aortic dissection
Where
- East Lansing, Michigan
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 25, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations