Home based isometric resistance band training to reduce blood pressure in West Northamptonshire.

Data presented by Public Health (Northamptonshire JSNA, 2021), reported cases of hypertension to be above average in Northamptonshire (14.2 %). Interestingly, the use of isometric exercise (where the muscle contracts but the length does not change) has been proven to significantly reduce blood pressure (5-17 mmHg, Systolic) in those people with both normal (Somani et al., 2017, Smart et al., 2019) and borderline- / high-blood pressure (Baross et al., 2013, Smart et al., 2019).

The development of isometric resistance bands at the University of Northampton provides a novel, low cost, engaging and effective method of carrying out low intensity resistance exercise and lowering blood pressure. The bands are robust and have a unit price of approximately £5 each. Ongoing research at the University into their effectiveness has shown significantly lower systolic blood pressure in normotensives, borderline hypertensives and hypertensives following 4-8 weeks of isometric resistance band training.

Using the funded part time research assistant this original, independent project in partnership with Public Health, and involving the NHS and the newly appointed five Health Coaches located in Northampton’s Primary Care Networks will identify patients who are either hypertensive (140/90 mmHg) or pre-hypertensive (>130/85).

These diagnosed individuals will be supplied with an isometric resistance band and undertake a 10-15 minute introduction session with a Health Coach to familiarise themselves with the band. They will also be provided with written instructions and a QR code that links to a YouTube explanatory video of the associated IRB exercises (e.g. Seated Pull - https://youtu.be/fD0d9k5U1kc). It is envisaged that up to a thousand of these band will be given out as part of this project.

Individual’s will also have the option to sign up to an 8-week research study. Those volunteering to participate in the research study will visit the university to undertake baseline measures, receive additional online support and following the 8-week intervention. They will also receive a second health check that will be undertaken to determine the changes in blood pressure, other related health measures in addition to engagement measures.

This project is working in conjunction with Public Health West Northamptonshire to undertake community health checks to help diagnose those individuals with hypertension and to invite those individuals to participate in a research study with the aim of lowering blood pressure over a 8-12 week period.