High blood pressure affects more than 25 per cent of all UK adults, and many people aren’t even aware they have it.
The condition, which is also known as hypertension, puts extra stress on blood vessels and vital organs.
It also increases the chances of developing some deadly complications, including heart attacks and strokes.
But you could slash your risk of high blood pressure by playing more tennis, it’s been claimed.
Tennis is a good choice of exercise for hypertension patients, as it’s an aerobic and repetitive activity, said Blood Pressure UK.
The sport uses rhythmic movements, while working the largest muscle groups of the body, it said.
All high blood pressure patients should try to incorporate more exercises into their workout routine that help the heart and blood vessels.
“Different kinds of exercise and activity have different effects on your body,” said the charity.
“Aerobic activity is the type that helps your heart the most.
“Aerobic activities are repetitive and rhythmic movements (exercises), and they use the large muscle groups of your body, such as those in your legs, shoulders and arms.
“Walking, jogging, swimming, dancing and digging are all aerobic activities.
“Other forms of activity are less helpful. For example, you should not do any exercise that is very intensive for short periods of time, such as sprinting or weightlifting.”
Intensive exercises can quickly raise blood pressure, which puts the heart under unwanted strain, it said.
Speak to your doctor before starting any intensive workouts. Some exercises, including scuba diving, will actually require a medical certificate before you start.
But, most people with high blood pressure should be able to increase their physical activity levels safely, provided they choose the right exercise.
High blood pressure is often known as ‘the silent killer’ as many people can have hypertension without even knowing it.
The only way of knowing if you’re at risk of the condition is to have your blood pressure checked.
But, if you have extremely high blood pressure, there could be some tell-tale signs that you’re at risk.
Hypertension symptoms include severe headaches, nosebleeds, and difficulty breathing.
See a GP or pharmacist to have your blood pressure checked. All adults over 40 years old should check their blood pressure at least every five years.