How to avoid high BP

It has remained unknown for centuries about what factor limits maximum exercise capacity.

It has remained unknown for centuries about what factor limits maximum exercise capacity in humans.

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During the past century, evidence has accumulated that suggests that the maximum exercise capacity in humans is limited by the maximal amount of oxygen that can be delivered to the active muscles.

By studying elite athletic humans with highly trained arm and legs muscles (cross-country skiers), Dr. Jose A. Calbet and a team of Scandinavian colleagues led by Professor Bengt Saltin found conclusive evidence showing that during maximal exercise in the upright position, the combined maximal arm and leg blood flows surpassed the maximal pumping capacity of the heart.

The latter means that to avoid hypotension during maximal exercise in the upright position, humans must restrain the insatiabilty for blood flow of active muscles. This finding may facilitate the comprehension of several pathologic conditions characterised by reduced exercise tolerance and may guide some new therapeutic approaches.