Exercise is an effective way to get rid of stress and one of its many side effects, the headache. Unfortunately, in some people, exercise triggers headaches. No one is exactly sure why. It could be because blood vessels dilate, or it could be related to how hard your heart is working. It may have something to do with a drop in blood sugar when you exercise. It might even be a result of poor posture while using your elliptical machine. If your headache is severe, or if this is the first time you've ever had an exercise headache, a doctor can rule out any serious underlying issues.
Definition
According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise headaches happen most often in hot and humid weather. Although it is possible to get an exercise headache from any type of strenuous activity, you may only get them from one specific activity, like using an elliptical. If you always get a headache when you use the elliptical and never get them when you use a treadmill or stair stepper, you might consider changing your cardio workout.
Recommendations
If you want to keep using the elliptical, but you find that you frequently develop headaches afterward, analyze the environment where you work out. Heat and humidity contribute to exercise headaches. You can adjust the thermostat down a few degrees or set up a fan nearby when working out in your home. When working out in a gym, try to find a spot near a fan, or ask the manager if it is possible to cool the room.
Posture
Make sure your machine is a good fit for you and you are able to maintain proper posture during your workout. If you lean too far forward during your workout, you could be putting excess strain on your back and neck muscles, which could contribute to a headache later on.
Alternatives
Spending more time on your warm-up and cool-down segments may help your body adjust to the demands of aerobic exercise and return to normal after the workout. Take at least five minutes at the beginning and end of your workout to use the elliptical at a gentle pace and low incline. When you step off the machine, allow yourself a few extra minutes to stretch before you move on to your next commitment. Drink plenty of water before, during and after the workout. If you are just starting out on an exercise program, gradually build your time and intensity. Many elliptical machines have variable settings for incline and resistance. In the beginning, keep these settings low to allow your body time to adjust to the workout. Each week, you can add a little more incline, resistance and time and slowly increase your pace.
Warnings
Although most exercise-related headaches are not hazardous, in some cases they are a symptom that something more serious is wrong. If your headaches are accompanied by vomiting, fainting, vision disturbances or a stiff neck, consult with your doctor immediately.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Exercise Headaches
- "ACE Group Fitness Instructor Manual;" American Council on Exercise; 2006.
- American College of Sports Medicine: Exercise Important in Shrinking Your Stress
- Georgia Department of Community Health: Exercise Headaches
- Cleveland Clinic: Overview of Headaches in Adults
