Does Workout Cause Heart Attack? Discovering The Truth

Jeeva R -

Introduction

Rising cases of heart attacks during workouts in young people have led to various concerns regarding the workout routine and if it's benefitting our health. Plenty of Celebrities, Fitness Enthusiasts, and Pro Body Builders suffered heart attacks. But it is misleading to say that exercise is harmful to our health. However, everyone deserves an answer to this doubt. Let's explore that today:

Is The Question "Does Workout Cause Heart Attack?" A Myth?

The simple answer is, No. It is not a myth, and various medical professionals researched to find a definite answer to this question. When a person performs intense workouts, his/her blood pressure increases. And when it happens, there is a chance of a heart attack. But apart from this, people who suffer from heart disease or other medical conditions are prone to heart attacks, especially during intense workouts. But this does not mean you start lying around, hoping you will live longer. Exercise is a healthy practice for the overall well-being of an individual. But you should be aware of your own body to enhance your health.

How Much Is Too Much?

People often work out more than their bodies can take at once, and it is one of the biggest mistakes you can commit. You must know your body limit, especially if you are an amateur. On average, scientists and researchers suggest people indulge in moderate physical activity for 150 minutes a week. For example, Walking is a moderate workout. 75 minutes a week if you prefer an intense workout routine like running, swimming or weight lifting. Since everybody is unique, consult a physical trainer or a doctor to know your recommended time and workout routine. It is mandatory to consult a doctor before hitting the gym, especially if you have heart-related diseases.

Suggested Exercises

If you prefer a moderate-level workout, exercises like Swimming, Walking, Hiking, and Dancing can serve you well. But if you are looking for a challenge, exercises like Running, Cycling, Weight-lifting, Kick Boxing, Cross Fit, and HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) would be ideal. You can consult your Fitness Trainer to suggest a workout routine that fulfils your needs. But before this, you must know that working out every day will not get you faster results but only cause injuries to your body. Work out 4-5 days a week and rest your body for 2-3 days. You must not overlook the benefits of recovery to your body.

Steps To Prevent Heart Attack

  • Consult A Doctor:- Visit a Doctor and take suggestions about your workout and the amount of intensity your body can handle.
  • Good Food:- No amount of workout can give you a healthy body if you do not follow a good diet. Consult a Dietitian to get a customized diet chart according to you.
  • Quit Smoking:- Apart from the hundreds of diseases, tobacco can increase the chance of heart attack in people.
  • One Step At A Time:- If you're an amateur, do not indulge in extreme workouts and shock your body. Start slowly to let your body react to these exercises.
  • Body Signals:- Always listen to your body signals and stop the workout whenever you feel uncomfortable or in extreme pain. Take a deep breath and rest for a day or until you feel okay to continue.

Conclusion

Life is all about balance. You cannot ignore exercise for fear of a heart attack. At the same time, you cannot indulge in intense workouts that pressure your body beyond the limit. Start working out, slowly increase the intensity, quit smoking, and follow a good diet for a healthy body and life.