The Benefits of Biokinetics for Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a life-threatening condition, but a few lifestyle changes can make all the difference to mastering how to live with it. Here’s how.
Regular physical exercise strengthens your cardiovascular system and especially your heart. A stronger heart pumps blood more efficiently through your arteries.
In fact, regular physical activity lowers your systolic blood pressure by an average of 4 to 9 mm Hg. In mild cases, you can improve your blood pressure readings without resorting to medication simply by starting an exercise regime.
For some people, increased blood pressure comes with ageing, so if you don’t have high blood pressure yet, exercise can delay its onset. Exercise also helps to control your weight, which is another important factor in hypertension.
Consistency is key. If you stop exercising as soon as you get your blood pressure under control, you’ll be back to square one in no time at all.
Baby Steps
If you suffer from high blood pressure, always consult your doctor before starting an exercise regime. They will certainly embrace your decision; however, there are a few things you need to clear up first
In some cases, it’s advisable to get your blood pressure under control before you start exercising. You’ll also need to be sure that exercise won’t interfere with any medications you are already taking.
It’s important to note that increased exercise may elevate your blood pressure slightly at first, and this is something you’ll want your doctor to keep tabs on. As you get fitter, your blood pressure will start to decline.
It can be dangerous to set off on a rigorous program of exercise unsupervised, which is where biokinetics comes in.
The Importance of Biokinetics for Hypertension
The best types of exercises for decreasing blood pressure are walking, jogging, cycling, rowing, aerobics and swimming. Since all of these exercises can be performed at varying intensities, it’s important not to set off at your own pace if you suffer from hypertension.
A biokineticist can set up an effective exercise program for you that takes all your physical qualities into consideration. They’ll make sure that you carry out exercises that will help you to progress at levels that are in line with your current fitness.
They’ll also incorporate strength training exercises to help your body cope more easily with the new demands you’re making on it.
The priority is taking it slowly and knowing when to stop.
When you work with a biokineticist, they’ll monitor your progress and your body’s responses closely to ensure that you continue to progress without overstraining yourself. Their intimate knowledge of how movement works will prevent you from straining yourself or wasting your time performing exercises incorrectly.
Alarm Bells
If you have hypertension, you should never continue to exercise if you experience the following:
- Weakness and light-headedness
- Pressure or pain in your neck, arm, jaw or shoulder
- Chest pain
These are serious red flags that warrant urgent medical attention if they persist for more than a few seconds.
Get Started with Exercise for Hypertension
If you want to get on board with exercise for hypertension, getting a biokineticist on your side can help you to reduce the risks and see results.
Keep reading our blog for more information on how to incorporate exercise as part of healthy living.
