NCT07022340 · University of Michigan
Hemodynamics After Resistance Training
(HeART)
What this study is about
Women's blood vessel health gets worse after menopause, or "the change of life". Some women exercise less during menopause. Exercise can improve blood vessel health. The investigators want to know if resistance exercise, like lifting weights, can improve blood vessel health in women who are just starting menopause.
View original scientific description
Women's blood vessel health gets worse after menopause, or "the change of life". Some women exercise less during menopause. Exercise can improve blood vessel health. The investigators want to know if resistance exercise, like lifting weights, can improve blood vessel health in women who are just starting menopause. The investigators also want to know if lifting weights can improve mood, sleep, and quality of life in women going through menopause. The investigators will have two groups of women for this study. One group will lift weights (do resistance exercise) twice per week, and the other group will get emails with information about menopause. The investigators will measure blood vessel health, sleep, mood, and menopause symptoms at the start and the end of this study and compare women who did and did not exercise.
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
- Are between 40-60 years old
- Have had menstrual irregularities in the last 12 months
- Do not currently complete more than two 30-min sessions of structured exercise per week and do not do any resistance training exercise;
- Are not currently pregnant
- Do not smoke or vape nicotine or marijuana
- Have not had an oophorectomy, hysterectomy, or surgical menopause
- Are not currently taking hormone replacement therapy
- Have not taken hormone replacement therapy in the last 6 months
- Are not taking steroidal medication or medication to treat diabetes, cholesterol, or high blood pressure
- Are able to exercise - your doctor has not told you that you cannot exercise
- Can attend a morning study visit at the University of Michigan's School of Kinesiology Building
- Are willing to avoid food 2 hours prior to the morning study visit
- Are willing to avoid strenuous exercise, caffeine, and alcohol, 8 hours prior to the morning study visit
- Are willing to participate in an exercise training program or health education program for 16 weeks
Where
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
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 Jun 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations