In some cases, chest pressure while exercising can be serious. In others, it might be the result of an inconvenient injury. While exercise is undeniably good for you, the American Heart Association recommends starting slowly if you have not regularly exercised before. This can guard against serious problems and prevent minor ones, as well.
Strain
Muscle fatigue and strain can both cause a heavy feeling across your chest, especially with push-ups and weightlifting or if you haven't stretched or warmed up before exercising. Sudden pain will usually accompany a strain or muscle tear, however. With a strain, the pain may pass quickly and leave just a sensation of pressure across your chest. Figure out what you were doing when the pressure occurred. If you were using your chest muscles, this might be the cause.
Asthma or Bronchial Condition
You might also experience chest pressure during exercise because of an ailment that doesn't allow you to breathe properly and get adequate air into your lungs. If you suffer from asthma, exercise can prompt an attack. You'll most likely also experience shortness of breath. If you have never had an asthma attack before, this can be frightening because the symptoms can mirror a heart attack. If you've persisted in working out even though you have a bad cold or bronchitis, you can also expect pressure across your chest when you exert yourself.
Angina
The worst cause of your chest pressure might be angina. An attack occurs when insufficient blood, carrying healthy oxygen, is getting to your heart. Sudden pain accompanies angina, but it might also feel like a squeezing or heavy feeling of pressure or general discomfort in the area of your chest. According to the Medical University of South Carolina, strenuous exercise is a known trigger of angina. Angina is not a heart attack but is a symptom of heart disease and can be an indication of a future heart attack if it is not addressed by a physician.
Warning
No matter what the cause, if you experience chest pressure while exercising, you should stop immediately until you identify what's going on. The American Heart Association advises that you seek medical help immediately if you have any history of heart trouble, if the pressure is accompanied by pain or pressure in your left arm, neck or shoulder, or if the sensation doesn't go away when you stop exercising.
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