IMPACT OF ISOMETRIC HANDGRIP EXERCISE ON CARDIOVASCULAR AND RESPIRATORY PARAMETERS IN OBESE AND NON-OBESE HEALTHY YOUNG ADULTS: A CASE-CONTROL STUDY

Abstract

Background:Isometric exercise produces sustained muscle contraction and significant cardiovascular responses. Obesity alters respiratory mechanics and autonomic regulation, potentially modifying responses to static exercise.

Objective:To evaluate cardiovascular and respiratory responses to isometric handgrip exercise in obese and non-obese healthy young adults.

Methods:A case-control study was conducted among 60 healthy participants aged 18–22 years. Thirty obese subjects (BMI ≥25 kg/m²) and thirty normal-weight controls (BMI 18.5–22.9 kg/m²) were included. Isometric exercise was performed using a handgrip dynamometer at 30% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Cardiovascular parameters, including heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP), were recorded at baseline, immediately after exercise, and during recovery. Respiratory parameters, including Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), were measured using spirometry. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test.

Results:The mean baseline heart rate was significantly higher in the obese group (75.17 ± 7.3 bpm) compared to the normal group (72.87 ± 7.1 bpm) (p < 0.001). Heart rate increased following isometric exercise in both groups; however, intergroup differences immediately after exercise and during recovery were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Baseline systolic and diastolic blood pressure values were comparable between groups, and post-exercise and recovery blood pressure responses showed no significant differences. Respiratory parameters, including FVC and FEV1, were comparatively reduced in obese individuals, indicating decreased pulmonary function.

Conclusion:Obese young adults demonstrate elevated baseline heart rate and reduced pulmonary function compared to normal-weight individuals, suggesting early autonomic and respiratory alterations. Although blood pressure responses to isometric exercise were comparable between groups, the observed physiological differences highlight the importance of early preventive strategies, including weight management and regular physical activity, to reduce future cardiovascular and respiratory risk.