Handgrip Exercise Training and CKD

This study is testing whether a simple hand-squeezing (handgrip) exercise program can improve blood pressure and cardiovascular health in people with moderate chronic kidney disease (CKD) who do not currently exercise regularly. CKD reduces kidney function over time, and high blood pressure is both a cause and consequence of the condition. **You may be eligible if...** - You are between 45 and 85 years old - You have been diagnosed with CKD stage 3a or 4 (kidney function reduced to 15–59% of normal) - Your kidney function has been stable for at least the past 3 months - You do not currently exercise more than 20 minutes twice per week **You may NOT be eligible if...** - Your kidney function is severely reduced (less than 15% of normal, stage 5 CKD) - You have metabolic alkalosis (a blood chemistry imbalance) - You have ongoing drug or alcohol abuse - You have diabetic nerve damage in your hands - You have severe anemia (very low hemoglobin) - You have significant heart failure or uncontrolled high or low blood pressure - You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.