HOWS YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE?

Have you had your BP checked recently?

Maybe it's something you think might be an issue?

If you have ANY concerns with regards to your BP - it's definitely something I'd recommend you speak to your GP about asap and for a few reasons.......

First of all if you have high blood pressure you can and probably should prioritise physical activity and exercise.

However - there are some very important considerations as to HOW you might train.

For example if your BP is high, you are on some form of BP medication and/or you haven't done any kind of physical activity recently, it's not recommended you dive straight into a physical training program.

You should take a graded approach to everything you do.

Start slow at low intensity and build slowly over time.

For example - you could begin to do some very light aerobic activity (like walking) that keeps your heart rate low.

Be consistent with this for a while...

As your health and BP improve you can then start to consider adding in some form of resistance training.

In fact, it's accepted that the combination of appropriate aerobic work and resistance training is the BEST form of training for improving issues with BP.

Now - lets say you are able to train as part of a training program under the support and guidance of trainers who understand your issue and how to help.

What you should be told is that there are few things we'll make sure of while you train.

Here's a few examples:

1. Limit or avoid high intensity / effort work that spikes your heart rate
2. Lift lighter weights that are at a low % of the heaviest weight you can lift for more reps
3. Avoid valsava breathing and instead focus on a more continuous breathing technique to reduce pressure
4. Train at a more relaxed/continuous pace
5. Track your heart rate while you train (maybe using a HR device like MyZone)

Finally - it's HIGHLY recommended that if you have issues with your BP you work to improve your body fat %, reduce your waistline and/or improve your waist/hip ratio.

Combining all of the above should help you to improve issues with BP, reduce reliance on medication and ultimately allow you to improve your all round strength, fitness, health and happiness!

Have you had issues with your own BP? How did you go about improving it?

Let me know! :)

David "all heart" Knowles

P.S. Think you have issues with your BP now? Make sure to get this checked out with your GP asap.

P.P.S. If he/she gives the go ahead - get yourself moving and active! If you'd like help with this - let me know by clicking this link and filling in your details >> kickstart.evolutis.ie