3 Exercise Mistakes That Can Increase Eye Pressure
Many people exercise to stay healthy, but did you know that some common workout mistakes could actually increase eye pressure? For those managing eye conditions like glaucoma or simply looking to maintain optimal eye health, it is critical to exercise wisely.
Here are three exercise mistakes that could be putting unnecessary strain and pressure on your eyes—and what to do instead.
1. Wearing Small Swimming Goggles
Many people don’t realise that tight swimming goggles can actually increase eye pressure. The suction effect from poorly fitted goggles presses against the eye socket, creating additional pressure on the eyeball.
This added pressure can be problematic for those managing glaucoma or other eye conditions.
What to Do Instead:
Opt for large, well-fitted goggles with a soft seal that doesn’t create excessive suction.
Adjust the straps to prevent unnecessary tightness while still maintaining a secure fit.
If swimming is a regular part of your routine, invest in pressure-reducing swim goggles designed for eye comfort.
2. Holding Your Breath During Intense Exercises
One of the biggest mistakes people make during strength training or high-intensity workouts is holding their breath, also known as the Valsalva manoeuver. This technique is often used to stabilise the core when lifting heavy weights, but it can cause a sudden spike in eye pressure, putting extra stress on the optic nerve.
Why It's Bad:
Holding your breath increases pressure in your chest, which in turn raises blood pressure and eye pressure.
Studies show that weightlifting with breath-holding can temporarily elevate eye pressure significantly, posing a risk for those with glaucoma.
What to Do Instead:
Exhale as you lift or push—this helps regulate internal pressure, much like releasing the valve of a pressure cooker.
Use controlled breathing techniques to maintain steady oxygen flow and reduce unnecessary spikes in eye pressure.
If lifting heavy weights, consider using lighter weights with higher reps to reduce breath-holding tendencies.
3. Doing Exercises That Put Your Head Below Your Heart
Certain yoga poses, inversion exercises, and even some strength training movements can temporarily increase eye pressure. Movements like headstands, downward-facing dog, or deep forward bends can lead to a significant rise in eye pressure.
Why It's Bad:
When your head is positioned lower than your heart, blood rushes to your head, increasing eye pressure.
Modify yoga poses by keeping your head level with or above your heart.
Opt for alternative stretches and movements that avoid excessive pressure on the eyes.
If you love yoga, try gentler practices like seated stretches and breathing exercises.
The Right Moves & Nutritional Support for Healthy Eyes!
The good news? When done correctly, exercise helps reduce psychological stress, improves circulation, supports heart health, and can even help regulate blood pressure—all of which benefit eye health. The key is to avoid unnecessary spikes in eye pressure while exercising smartly.
Similarly, the right nutritional support can further benefit your vision by promoting healthy ocular circulation and maintaining stable eye pressure.
Some of the most powerful natural ingredients for eye health include:
Bilberry – Supports ocular blood flow and maintains retina health
Ginkgo biloba – Promotes circulation to the optic nerve
Saffron– Helps maintain healthy eye pressure and macular function.
All these powerful antioxidants are part of the Nutravision formula, designed using the pioneering NP-10 System™ to provide targeted support for your eye-nerve-brain vision ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but if you have concerns about eye pressure, it's important to exercise smart. Avoid holding your breath, modify head-lowering exercises, and use well-fitted swimming goggles to protect your eyes.
By making small adjustments, you can continue staying active while safeguarding your vision for years to come.
