Scoring low or moderate on the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ).
Previous diagnosis of high blood pressure and/or a resting systolic blood pressure ≥130 but \<180 mmHg (self-reported and confirmed during screening/baseline assessment).
Currently taking no anti-hypertensive medicine or taking anti-hypertensive medicine with no treatment change within the last 4 months prior to enrollment.
Stable dietary and physical activity patterns (including dietary supplementation) over the last 4 months
You may not be if
Aged \<18 or \>65 years
Resting blood pressure ≥180/110 mmHg or resting heart rate \>100 bpm during baseline as-sessment
Manifest cardiovascular disease including cerebrovascular disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, or advanced retinopathy (fundus hypertonicus grades III-IV) based on a self-report health history questionnaire.
Type 1 diabetes
History of other chronic disease including malignancy, neurological conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis) or respiratory conditions (e.g. COPD).
Contraindications to exercise based on answers to the physical activity readiness questionnaire.
Physical limitations preventing handgrip exercise (e.g. arthritis or other musculoskeletal disorder)
Scoring "high" on the international physical activity questionnaire
Taking more than 2 anti-hypertensive drugs or a change in treatment strategy in the previous 4 months.
Currently taking nitrate medication (as it is commonly prescribed for angina) or on hormone replacement therapy
Significant self-reported change in lifestyle patterns in the prior 4 months (e.g. currently on a planned diet for weight loss).
