Skip These Exercises To Manage Hypertension

Managing high blood pressure can feel like an uphill battle, and many may overlook how ir exercise routine impacts ir health. While maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for overall well-being, not all forms of exercise are visable for individuals with hypertension. Certain workouts can le to sudden spikes in blood pressure, which may put unnecessary strain on heart.

It's crucial to approach exercise with caution if you have high blood pressure. Activities like heavy weightlifting, sprinting, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) should generally be avoided. se high-intensity workouts can quickly elevate heart rate and blood pressure, posing significant health risks. Inste, opt for moderate activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga, which promote cardiovascular health without excessive strain.

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when blood exerts excessive force against artery walls, making heart work harder. This condition can le to serious health complications, including heart disease and stroke. According to World Health Organization, hypertension affects over one billion ults globally, making it a leing risk factor for death. Blood pressure reings consist of two numbers: systolic (pressure during heartbeats) and diastolic (pressure when heart is at rest). Hypertension is diagnosed when reing exceeds normal levels.

Common symptoms of spike in blood pressure

Often dubbed "silent killer," high blood pressure frequently presents no symptoms. However, in more severe cases or during sudden spikes, individuals may experience:

Dizziness

Heart palpitations

Nausea and vomiting

Heaches

Chest pain

Exercises to avoid during high blood pressure

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, averaging about 30 minutes a day. However, certain exercises can be detrimental:

Heavy Weightlifting: Lifting heavy weights can cause abrupt increases in blood pressure. Valsalva maneuver, often used during heavy lifts, temporarily restricts blood flow, leing to dangerous surges in pressure.

Isometric Exercises: Activities like planks or wall sits, which require holding positions for extended periods, put muscles under constant tension, significantly increasing blood pressure during exercise.

HIIT Workouts: While beneficial for fitness, intense bursts of activity characteristic of HIIT can le to spikes in blood pressure, especially for those new to this style of training.