It’s always important to stay active and get exercise. However, certain health conditions, such as hypertension, can make especially strenuous forms of exercise dangerous. This is the case when it comes to hypertension. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects millions of people worldwide and presents significant risks to cardiovascular health if left uncontrolled. Exercise is often touted as a key component of managing hypertension, but not all forms of exercise are safe for individuals with this condition.
To shed some light on a few types of exercise that could pose a risk to people who struggle with high blood pressure, we spoke to personal trainer Andrew White of Garage Gym Pro. He told us that heavy weightlifting, high-intensity interval training, isometric exercises, and strenuous sports are all options to be wary of. Learn more about the risks of each below.
1. Heavy Weightlifting
For most people, weightlifting can be a great way to build muscle and stay in shape. However, if you struggle with hypertension, it's best to stay away from heavy weights.
White warns against heavy weightlifting exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. He explains, "Lifting heavy weights can cause significant increases in blood pressure during the lift." The intense strain and muscle contraction involved in these exercises can dramatically increase vascular resistance, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood. For individuals with hypertension, these momentary spikes in blood pressure can be particularly risky.
2. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT workouts, known for their short bursts of intense activity, are typically a fantastic way to burn fat and get into shape—but they're not for everyone. White says that HIIT can be hazardous for those with high blood pressure.
He cautions that "sudden spikes in blood pressure" can occur during activities like sprinting or high-intensity cycling. These sharp increases in heart rate and blood pressure pose potential risks for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension.
3. Isometric Exercises (Static Holds)
Isometric exercises, such as planks or wall sits, may seem innocuous, as they're relatively low-impact. But according to White, they could pose a risk to people with hypertension.
"These exercises can cause a continuous rise in blood pressure throughout the duration," he explains. During isometric holds, blood flow is restricted, leading to elevated blood pressure readings and posing risks for those already struggling to manage their blood pressure levels.
4. Strenuous Sports
Finally, it's best to avoid all strenuous sports if you're worried about your blood pressure levels. This includes a range of competitive sports, powerlifting, and intense sprints.
White emphasizes that "These strenuous activities can lead to rapid increases in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially exceeding safe limits for someone with hypertension." The strain placed on the cardiovascular system during these activities may pose significant risks for individuals with high blood pressure, highlighting the importance of caution and moderation in exercise choices.
Bottom line
Ultimately, while exercise is crucial for managing hypertension, certain activities can pose serious risks for individuals with this condition. Instead of participating in these potentially dangerous methods, individuals with high blood pressure can focus on exercises that provide cardiovascular benefits without the extreme strain on the circulatory system, such as yoga, Pilates, and light resistance training. By prioritizing safety and choosing appropriate forms of exercise, individuals you can manage their hypertension while maintaining an active lifestyle.
READ MORE: Experts Say You Should Do This Activity Every Morning To Prevent And Treat Hypertension
