If you have high blood pressure, it’s understandable to feel cautious about starting an exercise programme. Many people worry that exercise might make their condition worse or that a gym environment won’t be suitable for them.

In most cases, regular exercise is one of the lifestyle changes most commonly recommended to help manage high blood pressure. The key is making sure you’re doing the right type of exercise at the right level for you.

That’s one of the reasons every Session at RISE is coach-led.

Can you exercise with high blood pressure?

For many people, the answer is yes. In fact, regular physical activity can play an important role in improving blood pressure alongside other lifestyle habits and any treatment recommended by your GP.

However, everybody is different. Your age, medical history, medication and current blood pressure readings can all influence the type and intensity of exercise that’s appropriate.

That’s why we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach.

How RISE helps people exercise safely

Rather than expecting you to work everything out for yourself, a coach is with you throughout every Session.

That means we can help you:

• Choose exercises that are appropriate for your current fitness level
• Adjust exercises when necessary
• Avoid doing too much too soon
• Progress at a pace that’s right for you

We also know that many people joining RISE haven’t exercised regularly for years. Feeling nervous about getting started is completely normal.

Should I speak to my doctor first?

If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, take medication or have any concerns about your health, it’s always sensible to follow your GP’s advice before starting a new exercise programme.

Once you begin, regular, appropriately prescribed exercise combined with other positive lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on your long-term health.

Having high blood pressure doesn’t automatically mean exercise isn’t suitable for you. In many cases, it means finding the right support and the right starting point.