Feel lightheaded when I try and exercise - is it normal?

[FidosLament]

I’ve had some problems with dizziness and lightheadedness generally before. I’m unfit - but not overweight - and when I try and exercise I feel like I’m going to pass out. It’s probably because I’m unfit but how do I improve when it doesn’t make me feel good. Any advice?

Are you overdoing it? This has definitely happened to me but it's been when really being pushed and with a high heart rate. Also are you drinking enough water? What kind of exercise are you doing when you feel like this?

What sort of exercise? If you’re using gym cardio machines like the treadmill or elliptical then it’s not uncommon to experience vertigo as a result of the motion. Do you eat a decent snack an hour or so before exercising and drink water? Low blood sugar and low blood pressure can both cause lightheaded ness.

Have you been checked by the doc? You're supposed to before embarking on a new exercise programme. You might have low blood pressure, perhaps.

Have you had labrynthitis before ? I had to give up running as the motion makes me dizzy & lightheaded 😩

Do you have low blood pressure? I get this sometimes with Pilates or yoga when I have to move from floor to standing up. Also doing anything even slightly upside down sets it off- like during downward dog. I just stand up quite slowly and carefully.

I tend to have blood pressure on the low side so have something salty before planning a sweaty workout. Salt and vinegar crisps mean I have the starch for energy as well as salt.

If it's not solved by making sure you're well hydrated and have fuel in your body, get checked out at the GP.

I always eat around an hour or so beforehand. I’m just doing basic things like exercise bike or treadmill. Quite slow as I’m really unfit!

I’d never thought about the salt, I will try that and see if it helps.