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What Are the Dangers of Isometric Exercises?

Jul 31, 2011 | By Rick Rockwell

Isometric exercises -- also known as isometrics -- are done in a static position, where the muscle length and joint angles do not change during the contraction. Isometric exercise may be either performed against an unyielding surface, called overcoming isometric, or held during opposition, called yielding isometric. Examples of isometric exercises include abdominal planks and wall squats. Because the force you exert during isometric exercise causes you to strain, this type of exercise can be dangerous, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Valsalva Maneuver

When you strain -- such as when you lift something heavy or when you do isometric exercise -- the pressure in your abdominal cavity rises due to something called the Valsalva maneuver. This rise is caused when you exhale forcefully against your closed epiglottis, or against a closed nose and mouth. The purpose of this is to support the spine. This becomes dangerous to people with blood clots, because the pressure can cause these clots to detach, bleeding within the ventricles and abnormal ventricle rhythms.

Increased Blood Pressure

When you perform the Valsalva maneuver, your blood pressure can rise dramatically. This poses a potentially life-threatening rise, particularly to people with pre-existing high blood pressure or low blood volume. High blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, memory problems, damage to blood vessels in the eyes and kidneys, and aneurysm.

Increased Pulse Rate

Because systemic blood return to the heart is reduced due to pressure in the chest cavity during the Valsalva maneuver, the blood vessels constrict and pulse rate increases. Increased pulse rate can lead to the development of blood clots within the heart, which can lead to stroke. Other risks include heart failure, brain damage, stroke, and death.

Prevention

The best way to prevent increased blood pressure and increased intra-abdominal pressure during isometric exercise is to breathe. All of these dangerous side effects can be avoided by breathing during exercise. Additionally, if you are using weights during isometrics, choose ones that are not excessively heavy. This reduces strain.

Caution

While isometrics are generally safe for healthy people with normal blood pressure, this type of exercise can be very dangerous to people with high blood pressure, blood clots or cardiac problems. If you plan to start a regular isometric exercise program, consult with your healthcare practitioner to ensure it is safe. If you feel dizzy, faint or have chest pain during exercise, stop immediately and seek medical attention.

References

Article reviewed by Matt Olberding Last updated on: Jul 31, 2011

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