Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

Exercise Tips for Migraines and Headaches

Warm Up

Never start a workout session with vigorous exercises, especially when you have migraines. Instead, it is important to warm up properly by walking, stretching, or lifting weights slowly. You should also start everything slowly until the muscles in the body are heated up. After the training session, take a short walk around or stretch gently to help cool down the body, reduce blood pressure, and lower heart rate. Doing both can help prevent a migraine attack. [4]

Avoid High Heat and Other Triggers

High heat may trigger a migraine attack. This is because it would make the body lose fluids more quickly and lead to dehydration, a major risk factor for migraines. Heat exposure may also result in heat exhaustion, which also causes migraines. Therefore, it is better to avoid working out under the sun or during hot days. Find a shady and cool place to do exercises. A good idea is to work out in the early morning or late in the afternoon. You should also avoid other possible triggers of migraines, such as bright light or humidity. [5]