Would you, or anyone you know, be interested in taking part in this study, which is being run through Canterbury and surrounding areas?

The IsoFIT-BP study is investigating whether static, or ‘isometric’ exercise, such as a wall squat (held in a fixed position) reduces blood pressure.  It is led by a group of researchers from the Centre for Health Services Studies at the University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University and East Kent Hospitals.

Dr Jim Wiles, Principal Lecturer from the School of Psychology and Life Sciences at Canterbury Christ Church University, said: ‘So far our research has shown that as little as 24 minutes of isometric exercise per week can successfully reduce most people’s blood pressure by a clinically significant amount. This in turn dramatically reduces the risk of associated diseases such as cardiovascular disease.’

Doctors already advise patients with high blood pressure to make lifestyle changes like stopping smoking and drinking less alcohol. People are also recommended to lose weight, change their diet, and exercise every day, along with taking medication. However, more than half of patients find their blood pressure remains high because they find it hard to stick to these changes and don’t take their medication.  The study is investigating whether prescribing a quick and simple wall squat isometric exercise is easier to stick to and benefits patients.

Consultant Nephrologist (Kidney Specialist) and Hypertension Specialist Dr Tim Doulton, from East Kent Hospitals, said people could potentially see improvements after only a few minutes exercise, three days a week.

If you are interested in finding out more, please see the image below

You can also email isofit-bp@canterbury.ac.uk with any queries. If you take part in the study, you might be required to travel into Canterbury on one occasion. You can register your interest in taking part by following this link to our registration survey.