Exercise and Hypertension - Discussion

The link between exercise and hypertension is undeniable.

Because hypertension is a disease of the cardiovascular system, cardiovascular exercise is instrumental in maintaining a blood pressure within a healthy range. Aside from cardiovascular exercise, exercise that is less strenuous and more focused upon the mind-body connection can also play a role in lowering one's blood pressure / risk for hypertension.

Exercise has been shown to decrease the risk of developing hypertension by 19 to 30 percent, as those with a low cardio-respiratory fitness level are 50 percent more likely to develop hypertension. As a component of a healthy lifestyle, exercise is vital in controlling blood pressure and lowering blood pressure that is elevated (under the supervision of a physician).

Exercise and Hypertension Prevention and Treatment

Moderate to high intensity exercise is wonderful for the cardiovascular system, and is therefore incredibly fundamental to the treatment and prevention of high blood pressure (currently, it is recommended that hypertensive individuals participate in exercise at a low to moderate intensity level). The American College of Sports Medicine recommends exercise as a cornerstone of any therapy for hypertension, and points to walking, biking, and other activities that moderately raise the heart rate as helpful forms of exercise.

As we discuss the exercise and hypertension link, let us bear in mind that research generally recommends consistent, moderately intense exercise over inconsistent high intensity exercise, because the maintenance of an active lifestyle is rather essential for adequate control of blood pressure.

The precise recommendations for exercise as a therapeutic measure for individuals with high blood pressure are that is should be as frequent as possible (preferably all days of the week), of moderate intensity (if one were to rate their level of exertion on a scale of one to ten, moderate intensity would rate from a 4-6), greater than 30 minutes, and primarily focused upon endurance with some resistance training. Additionally, exercise geared toward weight loss has the potential to be extremely helpful in lowering blood pressure, as the combination of exercise and weight control measures targets all of the areas that generally underlie hypertension.

Another form of exercise that can naturally control blood pressure and benefit the exercise and hypertension connection is yoga/meditative exercises. Yoga contributes to mindfulness and relaxation, therefore promoting the development of proper stress management. The role of stress upon blood pressure is not to be ignored, and developing a means of coping appropriately is quite important.

Yoga also contributes to weight loss, and regular performers are less likely to suffer from hypertension than people of the same sex and age that do not practice. The link between the body and mind is an incredibly powerful thing, and the strengthening of this connection that comes from practicing yoga can help to create an awareness of the state of one's body and a stronger desire to live a healthy lifestyle. Yoga's combined effects would be beneficial for anyone, but for those suffering from hypertension, yoga has the potential to have a uniquely positive impact upon blood pressure.

Conclusion

Once again, let us reiterate that the link between exercise and hypertension is irrefutable. Exercise is integral to effective, natural management of blood pressure. Cardiovascular activity is essential for controlling blood pressure and preventing hypertension. In addition to aerobic activity, exercises such as yoga and resistance training are important facets of a balanced lifestyle as well. Exercise is an excellent natural treatment and preventative measure for hypertension.

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