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Afraid to exercise or increase heart rate

Posted , 6 users are following.

michael60014
michael60014

Is anyone afraid to do anything that will increase heart rate

1 like, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • natalie09527
    natalie09527 michael60014

    Posted

    I use to be scared of that. And after I exercise I couldn't seem to get my heart rate down. Which got me more anxious. And I was constantly checking my heart rate and afraid i would die of heart failure if It got too high. Well this mentality could be more far from the true. It's good to exercise keep the rate high to make your heart stronger. Having your heart rate spike while you exercise is very good. And for those days you feel anxious after you work out just know those are good because each time you push yourself your body quickly adapts and pushes that wall back of what you can take. If you're anxious after you work out it's just adrenaline and you're ok. Listen to some mindful meditation. Also, since I stopped working about dying everytime I pushed my self my resting heart rates in the 50s which is very good.

  • natalie09527
    natalie09527 michael60014

    Posted

    I use to be scared of that. And after I exercise I couldn't seem to get my heart rate down. Which got me more anxious. And I was constantly checking my heart rate and afraid i would die of heart failure if It got too high. Well this mentality could be more far from the true. It's good to exercise keep the rate high to make your heart stronger. Having your heart rate spike while you exercise is very good. And for those days you feel anxious after you work out just know those are good because each time you push yourself your body quickly adapts and pushes that wall back of what you can take. If you're anxious after you work out it's just adrenaline and you're ok. Listen to some mindful meditation. Also, since I stopped working about dying everytime I pushed my self my resting heart rates in the 50s which is very good.

  • Philly89
    Philly89 michael60014

    Posted

    Yes!! This is very common with anxiety sufferers, especially those with health anxiety regarding their heart.

    I went through this same issue, until I read this book called "Anxiety & Phobia Workbook (6th edition)". I HIGHLY recommend reading it, it's very interesting and reassuring and it's a really easy read too.

    But anyway, in this book they address that EXACT fear (as well as many others), and basically explain scientifically why it is silly to be afraid of your heart rate increasing. Exercise is actually very good for anxiety in general, and it actually strengths your heart. The feelings you get when your heart race just remind you of what you feel during an anxiety attack, and that's why we fear it. But exercising is very benefitial and can help prevent anxious feelings so it should NOT be avoided! =)

  • dmw1611
    dmw1611 michael60014

    Posted

    I do as well. I avoid anything that increases my heart rate because in my mind it equals anxiety. I am also afraid that I may pass out . I know exercise is good for my body and good for fighting anxiety, but I have to get past my fear first......you are not alone

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