All right, so you want to get your heart pumping in a way that, well, actually helps your heart, huh?
This time on the deep dive, we're strapping on the masks and testing out a theory.
Could fencing be the unexpected key to healthy blood pressure?
Fencing, like with swords?
Precisely.
We've got this article here by Thomas, he's a veteran fencer, and according to him,
there's a lot more to this spores than meets the eye.
Well, it's not every day we get to talk swordplay and health in the same breath.
So lay it on me, what's Thomas' take on how fencing could actually lower blood pressure?
Well, he starts by saying that when you're on that strip going blade to blade,
your heart rate can hit a whopping 90% of its maximum.
Whoa, 90%, that's intense.
Yeah, it really is.
And that intensity is a major part of his point.
We all know cardio is good for the heart, but what about those short bursts of all-out effort
that you get with fencing, you know, those lunges, those parries?
It's almost like HIE, high intensity interval training.
Oh, right, like sprinting, then resting, then sprinting again.
Exactly.
And studies have shown that HIE could be incredibly effective for heart health.
It's that whole shock and awe approach, I guess, for your cardiovascular system.
It gets things working in a way that your everyday job just doesn't quite achieve.
So we're talking about the heart healthy benefits of basically what, pretending to stab someone.
Well, there's a lot more to it than just that, of course.
Right, fencing involves strategy, focus, quick thinking.
Exactly.
And this is where it gets even more interesting, because Thomas also talks about things like
calorie burn, stress relief, even improved coordination.
All those are good for you generally, right?
But they also tie right back to blood pressure.
Okay, yeah, I can see how that all connects.
I mean, I know when I'm stressed, I can practically feel my blood pressure rising.
Right.
And then on the flip side, we've got the calorie burn.
Being overweight is a major risk factor for high blood pressure.
So shedding some pounds through fencing, well, that's a win-win.
And what about the coordination piece?
How does that fit into the puzzle?
Believe it or not, better coordination actually requires your nervous system and your circulatory system
to work together more efficiently.
And that improved communication.
It actually helps regulate your blood pressure.
Wow, who knew that mastering a parry could actually calm your cardiovascular system?
That's wild.
But you know what else caught my eye in this article?
Thomas talks about how fencing isn't just for, you know, young athletic types.
He says he sees people of all ages on the piece, even folks in their 70s and 80s.
Right.
It really seems to challenge those preconceived notions about what's possible as we age.
It's incredibly inspiring to hear about older adults engaging in a sport that requires such
physical and mental agility.
I mean, I can barely touch my toes some mornings, but I do have to ask, is it safe for you
that it's safe for everyone?
That's a great point.
While it's fantastic that fencing is accessible to a wide range of ages, it's crucial to consult
with a doctor before jumping into any new exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing
health conditions.
Absolutely.
Safe to first, always.
But I gotta say, this whole fencing family thing that Thomas talks about, it's kind of heartwarming,
isn't it?
It is, although I can't help but picture grandma and grandpa going at it with those he pays.
Ha!
No, that's an image.
But in all seriousness, finding an activity you genuinely enjoy, maybe even one you can
share with loved ones, that's a powerful motivator to stay active, wouldn't you say?
Absolutely.
And isn't that what it's all about?
The joy of movement, the thrill of competition, the sense of community, these things can do
wonders for both our physical and mental well-being.
So let's recap.
It sounds like fencing might be a real contender when it comes to managing blood pressure.
You've got the intense cardio, the built-in stress relief, the potential for a lot of
life-long engagement, not to mention the coolness factor.
It does seem to tick a lot of boxes.
And who knows, maybe we'll see a surge in fencing club memberships after this.
But even if swordplay isn't your thing, remember this.
Finding activities that make you feel energized, engaged, and connected,
those are the real keys to a healthier, happier you.
So true.
It's not just about fencing, it's about finding what sparks that fire in you,
what keeps you moving and feeling alive.
Exactly.
So tell me, what gets you moving and feeling alive?
Oh, that's a great question.
And one I think we'll leave for our listeners to ponder.