Weightlifting can significantly raise blood pressure, potentially increasing the risk of rupture in those with brain aneurysms.

For individuals with unruptured brain aneurysms (weakened or bulging areas in blood vessels), figuring out how to exercise safely can be challenging, especially when it comes to weightlifting.

While staying active is generally good for your health, it’s important to understand the risks involved.

Lifting weights is unlikely to cause a brain aneurysm to form. However, for individuals who already have an unruptured aneurysm, intense physical exertion, like weightlifting, could increase the risk of rupture.

During weightlifting, arterial pressure (the pressure inside blood vessels) can increase dramatically — up to 400%.

This puts significant strain on blood vessels, especially in individuals with preexisting conditions like aneurysms. Such a sharp rise in pressure could potentially cause an aneurysm to rupture.

Evidence suggests that vigorous physical activity, which may include weightlifting, increases the risk of brain aneurysm rupture by 2.4 times. Other high risk triggers include things that can cause a sharp rise in blood pressure:

  • anger
  • sexual activity
  • startling or stressful events
  • smoking
  • drug use

During heavy lifting, blood pressure can spike dramatically. For individuals with a brain aneurysm — in which the blood vessel walls are already weakened — this can increase the likelihood of a life threatening rupture.

The risk varies from person to person. One older study found that after physical exercise, older individuals had a significantly higher risk of rupture compared with their younger counterparts.

Aneurysms located in the internal carotid artery were also more likely to rupture than those in other locations, and smaller aneurysms were also at higher risk. The risk was similar for both males and females.

Lighter weightlifting or resistance training with moderate intensity may be considered safer, but you should only do it under medical supervision.

Your doctor may recommend avoiding heavy lifts (such as deadlifts or squats) or straining exercises and instead doing light aerobic activities, such as walking or swimming, which pose less risk of raising blood pressure suddenly.

There are a lot of factors that influence your treatment options for a brain aneurysm. Light exercises are often a part of treatment plans, but your personal risk levels may be different. It’s best to discuss your exercise options with a doctor before starting.

These exercise options that may be safer for individuals with an unruptured brain aneurysm:

  • Walking: Walking is a low impact activity that can improve cardiovascular health without causing significant spikes in blood pressure.
  • Swimming: Swimming provides a full-body workout while being gentle on the joints and reducing the risk of straining.
  • Cycling: Stationary or outdoor cycling at a moderate pace can be an effective aerobic exercise with a controlled intensity.
  • Yoga: Gentle yoga focuses on stretching, flexibility, and controlled breathing, which can be beneficial for relaxation without high pressure.
  • Tai chi: This is a low impact form of martial arts that emphasizes slow, controlled movements and can improve balance and flexibility.
  • Resistance band exercises: Resistance bands can be used for strength training, allowing for controlled movements without the high impact of free weights.
  • Light bodyweight exercises: Movements like wall sits, modified pushups, or seated leg lifts can strengthen muscles with minimal strain.
  • Pilates: Pilates focuses on core strength and flexibility, often incorporating controlled movements that can be adapted to different fitness levels.
  • Water aerobics: This is a low impact activity that combines cardio and strength training, while the buoyancy of water reduces strain on the body.
  • Stretching routines: Regular stretching can improve flexibility and promote circulation without putting pressure on the cardiovascular system.
  • Walking in nature: Gentle hiking on even terrain or walking in parks can reduce stress while providing cardiovascular benefits.
  • Elliptical machine: An elliptical offers a low impact, joint-friendly cardio workout that you can perform at moderate intensity, allowing control over effort.
  • Isometric exercises: Exercises like plank holds or static lunges involve holding positions to build strength without excessive movement, reducing strain on the body.
  • Low impact dance: Slow, rhythmic dancing such as ballroom or Latin dance can be enjoyable and a way to get moving without intense exertion.

The risk of brain aneurysm rupture varies depending on the location and size of the aneurysm. Even a brain aneurysm with very low risk can rupture — with or without a clear trigger. Some treatments, such as medications, could potentially reduce the risk of brain aneurysm rupture. Talk with a doctor to better understand your risk factors.

Weightlifting can significantly increase arterial pressure, potentially posing risks for individuals with brain aneurysms.

While moderate exercise can be beneficial for your health, it’s important to consult your healthcare professional before starting any weightlifting or high intensity workouts. Consider safer alternatives like walking, swimming, or yoga to maintain your fitness without the associated risks.