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There are various activities that help lower blood pressure – but is weightlifting one of them? Learn about the connection between weightlifting and blood pressure.

High blood pressure (or hypertension) is a significant factor in heart disease. To maintain healthy blood pressure, regular exercise is one of the best things you can do – but does that include weightlifting?

By lifting weights several times a week, you put your body through a lot of stress. While there are many benefits to staying in shape, there is a connection between weight lifting and hypertension.

According to the Mayo Clinic, lifting weights is not a good idea if you have blood pressure higher than 180/110 mm Hg. Since resistance training temporarily increases blood pressure, it may cause a dangerous spike in your levels.

However, this may not necessarily apply to most healthy adults or even those with only slightly elevated levels.

The American Heart Association (AHA) considers anything higher than 180/120 mm Hg as a hypertensive crisis. In other words, if you are going through a hypertensive crisis, you shouldn’t be lifting weights.

Nevertheless, if you suffer from hypertension in general (anything above 130/80 mm Hg), you should still consult a doctor. They can provide guidelines for lifting weights that will help you avoid any dangerous spikes in your blood pressure.

General Guidelines

weightlifting and blood pressureExercise, including weight lifting, is generally good for the heart. By being physically active, you can decrease the risk of hypertension, diabetes, and even depression.

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, aerobic exercises can lower blood pressure by 5 to 7 mm Hg. As a result, you can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 30%.

Resistance training can also play a part in reducing blood pressure and helping you to stay active. To maximize your weight training benefits and stay in a safe blood pressure range, consider these general guidelines.

  • Proper form: By using proper form during your exercise, you’ll increase the benefits and decrease the risk of injury. In contrast, bad form can lead to injuries and even increase your blood pressure levels.
  • Lighter weights: If you have high blood pressure, consider lifting lifter weights. Even though it’s not ideal, heavier weights can cause an increase in your blood pressure.
  • Breathing: Don’t hold your breath when performing a move. While the natural reaction to intense physical activity is to hold your breath, this may actually cause a spike in your blood pressure.
  • Consult a doctor: Those with high blood pressure should follow weight lifting guidelines from their doctor. They can help you manage your blood pressure so that you can partake in weightlifting exercises safely.

The Outlook

Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do to improve blood pressure – and this can include weight lifting. While people with hypertension will need to follow guidelines from their healthcare provider, they can still work out using weights.

In addition to exercise, another thing you can try to improve your blood pressure is beet supplements like HeartBeet Complete. Its ingredients work to increase nitric oxide, which improves circulation, helps lower blood pressure and may enhance energy and workouts.

Try HeartBeet Complete alongside your exercise routine to promote your blood pressure and workouts simultaneously.