Isenhurst Country Club

Blood pressure is quite simply the force exerted by your blood as it flows through the vessels of your body. If this pressure is too great, then extra stress is placed upon the heart, and this condition is known as hypertension. As your heart works, it goes through two phases. The beat is known as the systolic phase, and the rest is known as the diastolic phase. Blood pressure readings are always expressed as the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure, e.g., 130/80mmHg, which is normal.

Exercise will raise systolic blood pressure. As long as your diastolic pressure remains relatively constant or even drops a little, there is no problem, because the heart is getting the rest it needs between each beat.

A healthy lifestyle will significantly reduce the risk of hypertension occurring. Regular aerobic exercise for example, will directly lower blood pressure through increased cardiovascular efficiency, and indirectly achieve the same effect through weight loss.

Elevated blood pressure is not a natural hazard of ageing. Cardiovascular exercise will help to maintain normal blood pressure as one grows older. Remember that inactivity is not a bi-product of ageing. On the contrary, ageing is the result of inactivity. A major factor affecting hypertension is stress. Those people who are under long-term pressures run a dramatically increased risk of developing high blood pressure. Regular exercise is an excellent stress management vehicle.

A sensible diet is an essential tool in regulating blood pressure. Research has shown that high levels of salt intake have an adverse affect, as does excessive alcohol intake. The key, as always, is moderation.

Summary

1. Regular aerobic exercise for 20-30 minutes three times a week is the key to lower ing blood pressure.
2. Blood pressure is measured in two phases - systolic (beating) and diastolic (resting).
3. Hypertension need not be part of the ageing process.
4. Stress management is very important in controlling blood pressure.
5. Moderation in the intake of salt and alcohol will help to reduce the risk of hypertension.
6. Improved cardiovascular efficiency and reduced body fat will dramatically lower the risk of hypertension.