JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Kidney transplant recipients present reduced physical function and a high prevalence of cardiometabolic complications, which increase cardiovascular risk and compromise long-term graft outcomes. Resistance training has demonstrated beneficial effects in this population; however, previous interventions have shown heterogeneity in load prescription and have not incorporated objective monitoring of movement velocity. Velocity-based resistance training allows precise regulation of exercise intensity and fatigue, potentially improving safety and individualization of exercise prescription in clinical populations.

Objective:

This study aims to evaluate the effects of a 12-week velocity-based resistance training program on renal function and metabolic health in kidney transplant recipients and to compare two different load control strategies based on movement velocity.

Methods:

This pilot randomized controlled trial includes adult kidney transplant recipients with stable graft function. Participants are randomly assigned (1:1) to either a maximal velocity group, in which sets are terminated at a 20% velocity loss threshold, or a constant submaximal velocity group performing repetitions at 50% of individual maximal velocity. Both groups complete three supervised sessions per week for 12 weeks with real-time velocity monitoring.Primary outcomes include renal and metabolic health domains assessed through venous blood analysis. Serum creatinine was predefined as the hierarchical primary renal endpoint, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) as the hierarchical primary metabolic endpoint. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) will be calculated using the CKD-EPI equation. Secondary outcomes include blood pressure, body composition, muscular strength, metabolic syndrome criteria, and force–velocity profile. Data will be analyzed using analysis of covariance and linear mixed-effects models following a predefined hierarchical inferential strategy.

Results:

The intervention began in June 2025. At the time of manuscript submission, nine participants have completed the intervention (five in the maximal velocity group and four in the submaximal velocity group), and the remaining participants are currently undergoing the training program. Data collection and monitoring are ongoing, and final analyses are planned after completion of the intervention phase.

Conclusions:

The intervention began in June 2025. At the time of manuscript submission, nine participants have completed the intervention (five in the maximal velocity group and four in the submaximal velocity group), and the remaining participants are currently undergoing the training program. Data collection and monitoring are ongoing, and final analyses are planned after completion of the intervention phase. Clinical Trial: NCT07370727;