A calcium channel blocker is a medication used for various heart conditions. Some calcium channel blockers may slow your heart rate and can impact the target heart rate that can be achieved during aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise is still possible when you are on this type of medication and may actually be recommended because of its cardiac benefits. Always talk to your doctor before doing any type of exercise if you have a heart condition and you're prescribed a cardiac medication.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium Channel Blockers are a group of medications used to treat high blood pressure or hypertension, chest pain and irregular heart beats. Calcium channel blockers slow the rate that calcium -- which helps with heart muscle contraction -- enters the heart and vessel walls. The result is that the vessels relax and allow blood to flow through more easily. This relaxation lowers your blood pressure. Common side effects of the medication include fatigue, flushing, swelling of the abdomen, ankles or feet and heartburn, according to the Texas Heart Institute.
Target Heart Rate
When you do aerobic exercise, your heart rate allows you to know if you are reaching your fitness level. According to the American Heart Association, your adequate target heart rate should be within 50 to 85 percent of your maximum heart rate, depending on your heart condition and fitness level. Your maximum heart rate is about 220 minus your age. So when you have built enough endurance and exercised for several months, you may be able to achieve 85 percent of your maximum heart rate.
Calcium Channel Blockers and Exercise
According to a study published in, "The Physician and Sportsmedicine" in 2010, high blood pressure is a common cardiovascular condition in athletes. Medications to control high blood pressure are needed when lifestyle modifications fail. Calcium channel blockers in general are a good type of medication to take during exercise as they have less impact on the force and rapidity of blood circulation. On the other hand, certain calcium channel blockers that lower heart rate may cause you to have difficulty reaching your target heart rate during aerobic exercise. You should discuss an appropriate target heart rate with your doctor.
Safety Tips
Your doctor may recommend a stress test to help you determine an appropriate target heart rate while on a calcium channel blocker. When you begin this medication it may be necessary to change or closely monitor your exercise routine for your safety. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other diagnosed health conditions and other medications you take as this may impact her instructions related to aerobic exercise.
