Why should people with high blood pressure avoid exercising in the early morning? Scientific analysis and suggestions.

Avoid exercising in the early morning: We often see people repeatedly bending forward or squatting on balconies or open spaces as a form of morning exercise.

Medical data shows that the early morning is a peak time for cardiovascular events (such as coronary heart disease). This is because the body's sympathetic nervous system is more active in the morning, causing vasoconstriction, leading to increased blood pressure and, in severe cases, myocardial ischemia. Furthermore, blood viscosity is higher in the morning, increasing the risk of blood clots. Vigorous exercise at this time can exacerbate coronary heart disease and other cardiovascular complications.

For patients with hypertension, exercising immediately after waking up can cause insufficient blood supply to organs, especially the brain and heart, potentially leading to myocardial ischemia. Therefore, people with hypertension should not start with strenuous exercise immediately after waking up; it's best to begin with light activities such as walking or arm swinging, gradually increasing the intensity.

Additionally, air pollution is most severe in cities in the early morning and evening, while air is relatively cleaner at midday and in the afternoon. Because blood pressure exhibits a "morning surge," meaning it tends to rise significantly in the early morning (around 7-8 am), some patients skip their morning blood pressure medication before exercising in the park, increasing their risk of hypertensive encephalopathy or stroke. Therefore, it's best to exercise after 8 am or 5 pm, for a duration of half an hour to an hour. Since older adults are less active, they should actively participate in appropriate physical activities, such as walking or jogging. This can stretch muscles and bones, strengthen the heart, and improve blood circulation.