This study is a randomized, parallel-group controlled trial conducted in community rehabilitation centers in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 50 participants diagnosed with stage I hypertension will be enrolled and allocated into two groups using a computer-generated randomization sequence with allocation concealment.
Participants in both groups will undergo standard physiotherapy consisting of general warm-up exercises and stretching, performed under supervision three times per week for eight weeks. The intervention group will additionally receive resonant breathing training, delivered as a structured breathing exercise performed for approximately 20 minutes per session.
Resonant breathing is a slow-paced breathing technique performed at approximately 4.5-7 breaths per minute with equal inhalation and exhalation phases. It is intended to improve autonomic balance by enhancing parasympathetic activity and reducing sympathetic nervous system dominance, thereby potentially improving cardiovascular and psychological outcomes.
Outcome assessments will be conducted at baseline and after 8 weeks. Primary outcomes include systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and perceived stress.
Blood pressure and heart rate will be measured using a validated automated digital sphygmomanometer. Perceived stress will be assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10).
Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS version 26. Within-group comparisons will be analyzed using paired t-tests, while between-group comparisons will be assessed using independent t-tests. Effect size will be calculated using Cohen's d, with statistical significance set at p \< 0.05.
