Wall sits are a type of isometric exercise.Photo:Getty
Getty
Low-impact isometric exercises, like wall sits, may be better at lowering your overallblood pressurethan running on atreadmill.
Examples include leg lifts, planks, and wall sits — or wall squats, as they’re sometimes called — which the report specifically mentioned.
The report found that “isometric exercise training remains the most effective mode” at reducing blood pressure.
A patient has their blood pressure tested.Getty
Isometric exercise best reduced systolic pressure, while running reduced diastolic the most. However, isometric was overall the standout in decreasing pressure, the report found.
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But while isometric exercises may be most effective, the study’s authors don’t suggest that you drop your entire workout routine and only do wall squats.
“Our main message is that actually engaging in exercise is fantastic and any exercise might reduce your blood pressure,” said Jamie O’Driscoll, the senior author of the study, toldThe Washington Post.
“But if you’re an individual who is currently exercising to the guidelines and you’re still having a bit of difficulty reducing that blood pressure and you want to avoid going on medication, perhaps isometrics is an additional mode to complement the exercise you’re already doing.”
As The Washington Postexplained, “eight minutes of isometric exercise, three times a week, can lead to a meaningful reduction in blood pressure.”
This could mean holding the “sit” pose for two minutes, then resting for two minutes, until you’ve completed 8 minutes of the isometric exercise.
Wall sits are a type of isometric exercise.Getty
All you need is a flat wall and the right form, asVerywell Fitexplains “many people get it wrong.”
When squatting, make sure “your knees are directly above your ankles (rather than over your toes),” the outlet explains.
High blood pressure can “can seriously hurt important organs like your heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes,”the CDC says— but it can be managed to avoid health problems.
“There are other lifestyle changes as well as exercise that can benefit your blood pressure,” Joanne Whitmore, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, who wasn’t involved in the report, toldCNN.
“These include keeping to a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, cutting down on salt, not drinking too much alcohol and ensuring that you continue to take any prescribed medication.”
source: people.com
