5 Best Exercises to Beat Hypertension or High Blood Pressure
Exercising can not only help prevent high blood pressure or hypertension, but it can also help you manage the condition better.
Once you have high blood pressure or hypertension, you are put on anti antihypertensive medication and list of dos and don’ts which include foods to eat to control high blood pressure and also those to avoid. Many other lifestyle changes are also needed to lower your blood pressure. One of the things that is an absolute must is exercising. Various studies have shown that physical activity is an important antidote to hypertension woes. In fact, a recent research said that exercise could be as effective as antihypertensive medicines as far as high blood pressure is concerned. It isn’t safe to replace your medicines for hypertension with exercise or blood pressure-lowering foods, but, you can definitely supplement your efforts with certain exercises.
Walking: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your blood pressure in control is going for walks every day. Brisk walking is known to help reduce blood pressure. Make sure to do at least 30 minutes of walking every day.
Running: Running or jogging exerts a positive effect on the heart by lowering cholesterol and also by burning calories. It is also good for increasing the blood circulation in the body.
Swimming: Swimming is one of the best exercises for those with hypertension. Swimming can help reduce the risk of a number of cardiovascular diseases. It can also help you build muscle strength and regulate your breathing.
Weight training: Weight training or strength training is a must for everybody including heart patients. This is known to help expand blood vessels in the heart and is hence is highly recommended for heart patients. Do different kinds of strength training exercises every day to see the positive effects.
Planks: One of the easiest, no-equipment exercises is planking. One of the ways in which planking is good for your heart is that it can be great for reducing stress. It not only tones but also relaxes the stiffness in your muscles. Planking can also tone your abdominal muscles and help get rid of abdominal fat. Try different plank variations under a trained fitness expert.
You must make sure to consult with your doctor and your physical trainer about the exercises for you.