Static exercise--physiologic dangers and proper training techniques

Static exercise is commonly encountered occupationally and in normal activities of daily living. In addition, weight training, a form of static exercise, is one of the fastest growing physical activities in the United States. Static exercise is a stressor to the cardiovascular system. At high intensities it produces immediate and profound systolic and diastolic hypertension, moderate tachycardia and enhanced contractility resulting in a moderate increase in cardiac output without an increase in stroke volume. Static exercise is well tolerated in healthy people. People with cardiovascular disease appear to tolerate static exercise of low intensity if they have normal left ventricular fraction and reserve. However, in people with impaired left ventricular function and reserve, the exercise stress causes tachycardia, a hypertensive state, increased systemic vascular resistance, and left ventricular end diastolic pressure. If the exercise stress persists, stroke volume and ejection fraction decline. This article helps nurse practitioners in wellness and preventive patient education. An analysis of current research covers the relationship between client variables and the cardiovascular effects of static exercise. Nurse practitioners learn how to identify and advise clients who should avoid static exercise. The proper selection of a health fitness club and the proper components of a basic weight-training program are comprehensively reviewed.