Three studies were included in the review (n=81, range 15 to 49). Study quality was 1 in two studies and 2 for one
study; blinding was not undertaken in any of the studies. Publication bias was absent.
Resting SBP (-13.4mmHg, 95% CI -15.3 to -11.0) and DBP (-7.8mmHg, 95% BCI, -16.5 to -3.0) were significantly
reduced in the isometric handgrip group compared with controls when random-effects models were used;
heterogeneity was absent.
Significant reductions for SBP and DBP were observed when fixed-effects models were used; significant
heterogeneity was present for these comparisons.
Removal of each study from the analysis yielded significant reductions for SBP and DBP that ranged from -3.3 to
-10.3mmHg.