High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a problem that afflicts hundreds of thousands of people and can also lead to other serious illnesses including heart disease and stroke. In fact, hypertension is so serious that is often known as the silent killer.
High Blood Pressure
There are a number of ways to lower high blood pressure including medication and diet. One of the best ways to lower high blood pressure is through exercise, and exercise can even improve the effect of your medicine.
How Much?
Aim for thirty minutes of exercise per day. This is enough to help lower your blood pressure, and it may even keep you off medication if you have moderately high blood pressure. If you do not have time for a thirty-minute workout then try several ten-minute workouts spread throughout the day. Research has shown that you get the same benefits from several shorter workouts as from one longer workout. The workout should be a minimum of ten minutes long though.
Resistance
Resistance training can also improve your health, but make sure you check with your doctor before strength training. If you have hypertension, certain strength training exercises may increase your blood pressure. If you are unsure how to do weight training, then you can join a gym with a trained, knowledgeable staff. Additionally, you could take a Pilates or other aerobics class, which also includes resistance training, but with exercises that are easier on your body.
Make it Fun
If you are unsure how to get started on an exercise plan, consider which activities you would enjoy doing most. You are more likely to stick to an exercise regimen if you like doing something. Try taking a class or joining a local team. Soccer, basketball, and yoga are all excellent activities to take up. Take into account your fitness level before you sign up for a class. You can fit exercise into your schedule; it will just require some careful planning.
Stay Safe
You should also consult your physician before embarking on any exercise plan because your condition, or the side effects of your medications, may be serious enough to prevent you from taking part in certain types of exercise. Always remember to warm up and cool down before you exercise; this is especially vital if you have hypertension. You should stop exercising immediately if you experience extreme fatigue, chest pains, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, faintness, and pain in an arm or jaw. High blood pressure is a serious problem, but you may be able to help control it through exercise.