Additional Effects of Pilates Breathing and Diaphragmatic Breathing Combined With Moderate Intensity Continuous Treadmill Training on Blood Pressure, Chest Expansion, Pulmonary Function and Quality Of Life in Pre-hypertensive Patients
Foundation University Islamabad
45 participants
Feb 28, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Summary
Pre-hypertension is defined as systolic blood pressure between 120-139mmHg or diastolic blood pressure between 80-89mmHg and is considered a risk factor for developing hypertension. Early lifestyle interventions such as aerobic exercise and breathing techniques may help prevent progression to hypertension. This randomised controlled trial aims to determine the additional effects of pilates breathing and diaphragmatic breathing combined with moderate-intensity continuous treadmill training on blood pressure, chest expansion, pulmonary function and quality of life in pre-hypertensive patients. A total of 45 participants will be randomly allocated into three groups: treadmill training with pilates breathing, tredmill training with diaphragmtic brething and treadmill training alone. The intervention will be conducted for 6 weeks. Outcome measures including blood pressure, pulmonary function, chest expansion and quality of life will be assesed before and after the intervention.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- Prehypertensive individuals (SBP 120-139 mmHg or DBP 80-89 mmHg)
- Age 20-55 years
- Both male and female
- Sedentary individuals according to IPAQ
- Willing to participate and provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria6
- Diagnosed hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg)
- Cardiopulmonary diseases (COPD, asthma, CAD, heart failure)
- Musculoskeletal conditions preventing exercise
- Neurological disorders
- Pregnancy
- Participation in structured exercise in last 3 months
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Interventions
70% of maximum heart rate for 20-35 minutes, three sessions per week for six weeks.
Controlled lateral breathing technique focusing on rib cage expansion and core activation performed for 10-15 minutes, with low intensity, the perceived effort should be 3-4/10, with 3 days/week. A 06 weeks protocol will be followed. Steps: Patient in neutral spine position and hands placed on rib cage and abdomen. Inhale deeply expanding the ribs laterally. Exhale drawing the navel inward to engage core muscles.
Slow deep breathing emphasizing diaphragmatic movement performed for 10-15 minutes, with low intensity, the perceived effort should be 3-4/10, with 3 days/week. A 06 weeks protocol will be followed. Steps: Patient in supine or in seated position. Place one hand on chest and one below the ribs. Inhale slowly through the nose expanding the abdomen. Exhale through pursed lips, allowing the abdomen to fall inward and chest should remain still.
Locations(1)
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NCT07529821