Will becoming a powerlifter put me at risk of damaging my heart? After doing extensive research on this topic, the best answer I can give is a resounding maybe. Yes, forcing your body to lift heavy weights may put your heart at risk. It depends on your medical history and whether or not your family has a history of poor heart health.
*Before I go any further in this article I'm not a physician and have just gathered research that states the information listed in the article. While the content has been taken from credible sources you should consult a physician before making any health-related decisions.
What do weights do to our hearts?
Basically, lifting weights puts your body at risk of having heart disease, a stroke, or a heart attack if you’re over 45, male, and have a fairly poor state of physical health. An article on Men’s Health states, “when we strain to lift heavy weights we instinctively hold our breath (to stay tight) so that we’re able to maintain a level of support in our backs.” It also states, “the temporary boost in blood pressure is typically negligible for most male lifters is negligible”. However, those individuals who are above 45 years or older, with poor physical health, and a history of heart disease are at risk.
Mark Peterson Ph.D.,
Signs that lifting weights is hurting our heart
The general consensus among cardiologists is that those who lift heavy weights regularly (strongmen, weightlifters, powerlifters) should be visiting doctors on a regular basis. When we lift weights we are directly impacting the health of our aorta (our heart’s main artery). When we lift more than half our body weight we put a huge strain on our aorta, which can result in it tearing in a few places.
Relevant research on this topic
Studies by surgeons from Yale, New Haven Hospital states that the link between heart issues and lifting heavy weights, or strength training in general. A study was done by Dr. Elefteriades on 300 individuals who’d suffered from aortic dissection due to lifting weights. The results of the study stated that lifting weights can result in a rise of up to 300 in blood pressure - which is definitely a significant amount.
Aortic dissection
Aortic Dissection is something that is commonly experienced by weightlifters who have a family history of heart issues. In essence, Aortic Dissection is a health issue where the aortic wall splits. Once the aortic walls split, blood is allowed to enter the heart, which results in a stabbing, sharp pain. Typically this condition is lethal and should be treated immediately.
It can also help
Even if lifting heavy,
*Check out these squatting and deadlift articles if you want to find out more about how many times a week you should lift.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Powerlifting can be very dangerous for your heart. If your family has a history of bad heart health, you should take precautions to make sure that you stay safe. Visiting your physician regularly for updates on your heart health can make sure that you stay on top of the condition of your heart.
*If you're interested in seeing what other types of injuries could occur in powerlifting and some preventative measures, visit this article.
Resources:
https://annals.org/aim/fullarticle/668942/heart-strain-its-consequences
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/aortic-dissection/symptoms-causes/syc-20369496