Client #912t in Workout Questions and Answers

Client #912t asks:
“If I start weightlifting and bulk up 10 to 15 more pounds won’t it make my high blood pressure condition even worse? I already take HBP medicine.”

First and foremost any answer I give here is not a substitute for a doctor’s visit and advice from a medical professional.
High blood pressure shouldn’t restrict you from weightlifting and has potential to actually help lower your blood pressure when it’s done the right way. Several studies have shown decrease in blood pressure from a controlled fitness regime. Lifting lighter weights and working up in weight as you get your blood pressure under control with plenty of rest in between sets could be productive and help you. Just take your time and do not rush this the key would be slow and controlled lifting with no sudden spikes in amount of weight lifted.
Lighter weight workouts for 4-6 weeks may yield positive results for you but proceed carefully and before you start any new fitness or exercise program schedule an appointment with your doctor to get their opinion on it. As they have been the ones treating you they will have more data on your body and using them to monitor your progress as you go is always a good thing.

If you are given the go ahead to lift
- 30-40% of your max weight at most for upper body lifts and 50-60% for lower body
- Make sure you breathe
- avoid sets to failure
- start with a single set and work up to more
- plenty of rest between sets 90 seconds or more if needed
Frequently monitoring your blood pressure before and after exercise in important and just as much a part of your fitness journey as monitoring body fat or weight.

Last updated March 12, 2019