Exercise is one of the healthiest things you can do on a regular basis – but is it ok to exercise with high blood pressure? Let’s find out.
Regular exercise provides a variety of benefits, among them the benefit of lower blood pressure levels. In addition to lowering blood pressure, exercise can increase energy and help relieve some stress.
However, if you currently have high blood pressure (or hypertension), you may be wondering if it’s okay to exercise. While the general answer may be “yes,” there are certain exercises that are better for those with hypertension more so than others.
Is it ok to exercise with high blood pressure?
Overall, exercise is one of the best things you can do to improve your blood pressure levels. Still, as an individual, you may have some limitations, so it’s always better to consult your doctor before doing anything new.
Once you’re ready to begin your exercise routine, it’s important to remember that gyms are not necessary. Try brisk walking, swimming, jogging, biking, lifting weights, or even doing yard work.
A successful exercise session will have you breathing harder and making your heart beat faster without going too far. If your heart starts to beat too fast or irregularly, or you are very short of breath, it’s time to slow down and rest.
Moreover, if you experience chest pain, dizziness, weakness, lightheadedness, or pain, stop and seek help. The best exercise practices will have you wanting more, so avoid overworking yourself and pick something fun that you can do alone or in a group.
Which exercise is best for high blood pressure?
When choosing what type of exercise you can do, there are three main types: cardiovascular, strength training, and stretching. Cardiovascular (or aerobic) exercises help strengthen the heart and lower blood pressure levels.
Strength training is meant to build stronger muscles, which results in burning more calories and strengthening joints and bones. Stretching helps prevent injury by increasing flexibility and movement.
The type that most directly affects blood pressure is cardio exercises. These include walking, jogging, biking, swimming, cross-country skiing, rowing, skating, and anything that gets your heart pumping.
How often should you exercise?
The American Heart Association recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. In other words, exercising 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week is the least amount of exercise you should get.
For those who are short on time, more vigorous exercises can result in the same benefits if done 20 minutes a day, 3-4 days a week. However, if you’re not currently physically active, it’s best to gradually work up to this and improve over time.
The Outlook
As it turns out, exercise is one of the best things you can do when you have high blood pressure. Cardiovascular exercise is especially helpful when it comes to lowering blood pressure levels.
In addition to exercise, you can try adding circulation supplements to your routine. For example, HeartBeet Complete contains ingredients that naturally help increase blood flow, circulation, and lower blood pressure levels.
Ultimately, it’s important to do what you can to improve your blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease.
