Muscle Up

Does stress make your blood pressure spike? If so, then build up your biceps. Lean body mass helps your blood pressure return to normal after a stressful event, a recent study revealed. Muscle tissue improves your body's ability to regulate sodium, a key for blood pressure control. Tone your muscles by lifting weights a minimum of 10 minutes, 3 times per week.

Up to 1 in 3 people in the U.S. have high blood pressure, many of whom do not know they have it. High blood pressure is a silent killer and puts you at increased risk for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and kidney problems. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can affect your heart, arteries, brain, eyes, and kidneys. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day in response to physical and mental stress.

Now, a new study revealed that people who have the greatest proportion of lean body mass exhibit better regulation of blood pressure than people with less muscle mass. Keeping your weight down and exercising regularly can help reduce chronically high blood pressure. Your fitness program should incorporate exercises that build strength, stamina, and flexibility.