In this study, the investigators will evaluate acute changes in vascular function measures after moderate-intensity continuous and high-intensity interval exercise in healthy and prehypertensive individuals. Participants will be subjected to three separate visits: control condition (30 min rest), moderate-intensity continuous exercise, and high-intensity interval exercise. The investigators will measure aerobic capacity using a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) using indirect gas-exchange to derive subsequent exercise intensity and maximal oxygen uptake. The investigators will evaluate different measures of vascular function (Pulse-wave velocity, Flow-mediated slowing, microvascular function) before and after each condition.
The study will involve two groups of participants: healthy individuals and prehypertensive individuals. The investigators aim to establish the reliability and validity of less-established methods of vascular function assessment (flow-mediated slowing and microvascular function) against established measures (pulse-wave velocity). The acute response of vascular function to different exercise intensities has not yet been thoroughly researched using the aforementioned measures in individuals with similar characteristics to the proposed study cohort.
18 - 50 years of age, BMI < 30, blood pressure (BP) within the optimal range according to the latest ESH guidelines (< 120 mmHg systolic and/or < 80 mmHg diastolic BP)
Sedentary or low active according to the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) (Armstrong & Bull, 2006; Lim et al., 2012)
No prescribed medication and absence of chronic diseases
18 - 50 years of age, BMI < 30
Blood pressure out of the optimal range (normotensives)
High level of phyisical activity (moderate or high active according to GPAQ)
Hypotension
Chronic diseases