The MSNA responses to static handgrip and post-handgrip circulatory arrest are depicted in Fig. 2 (bottom panel). Data for only hypocaloric and normocaloric ambulatory interventions were analyzed because MSNA was not recorded during the first intervention (involving bedrest). Baseline MSNA was similar; however, the response during static exercise was significantly attenuated with caloric restriction (calorie * time interaction p = 0.04). Burst frequency remained elevated during post-exercise ischemia in both interventions.