Effect of cold, isometric exercise, and combination of both on aortic pulse in healthy subjects

The aortic pulse-wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index were measured in 24 healthy adults at baseline, during a cold pressor test (CPT), during hand-grip isometric exercise test (HIE), and during a combination of CPT plus HIE. The PWV and augmentation index increased significantly during CPT and HIE compared with baseline (p <0.01). The combined effect of CPT and HIE on PWV and augmentation index was greater compared with the effect of each intervention alone. (C) 2004 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.