Study: Being Physically Active at Work Does Not Sufficiently Fend Off Hypertension

According to a new study referenced in the National Kidney Foundation's blog, The Pressure Point, "recreational exercise for four hours each week was linked to a 19 percent lower risk of developing high blood pressure. But the health benefit did not extend to those who had similar levels of physical activity during the course of their work. They had the same high blood pressure risk as those in less physically taxing jobs."

At first glance, this didn't make much sense to me. But there is a logical explanation behind this finding. In our free time, we are the masters of the exercises we perform. We determine the type, length, and intensity of our workouts. We have the freedom to substitute, modify, and sometimes even walk away from our planned activities. On the job, we're usually more restricted in our familiar, repetitive movements. Our sessions and pace are frequently dictated by forces beyond our control, and oftentimes we're working under a deadline or quota system.  All of these factors can result in increased stress levels, leading to high blood pressure.

Another point worth mentioning is that, generally speaking, physical activity performed in the workplace emphasizes the upper body, and this can raise blood pressure, particularly if strenuous and repetitive. This is in contrast to lower body exercise (e.g. swimming, running), which promotes cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure.

Read the entire piece by Dr. George L. Bakris by following the link below: 

http://nkfpressurepoint.wordpress.com/2013/10/25/physical-activity-and-high-blood-pressure-risk-does-it-matter-where-you-exercise/