Know Your Numbers Week: Why Blood Pressure Matters

Sep 9
2 min read

This week is Know Your Numbers Week, a national campaign led by Blood Pressure UK to encourage everyone to get their blood pressure checked. It’s simple, quick, and could make a life-changing difference to your health.

Why blood pressure matters

High blood pressure (also called hypertension) is often called the “silent killer” because it rarely causes noticeable symptoms. Yet it’s one of the leading risk factors for serious but preventable health conditions, including:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Kidney disease

• Dementia

The good news? By checking your blood pressure and making small lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk and protect your long-term health.

What do the numbers mean?

When you have your blood pressure measured, you’ll see two numbers written like this:

120/80 mmHg

• The top number (systolic pressure): The pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts and pumps blood.

• The bottom number (diastolic pressure): The pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between beats.

Both numbers are important. High systolic pressure increases your risk of heart disease and stroke, while high diastolic pressure can indicate issues with your blood vessels.

What is a healthy blood pressure?

According to the NHS and Blood Pressure UK:

• ✅ Ideal: Around 120/80 mmHg

• ✅ Normal range: Between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg

• ⚠️ High (hypertension): 140/90 mmHg or above

• ⚠️ Low: 90/60 mmHg or below

For people over 80, slightly higher readings may be acceptable, but aiming for healthy ranges is protective at any age.

Why you should get checked

Because high blood pressure often has no symptoms, the only way to know your numbers is by measuring them. Early detection gives you the chance to take action before serious health issues develop.

Small changes, big results

The evidence is clear - lifestyle changes can lower blood pressure and improve heart health. Some of the most effective include:

• 🏃‍♀️ Regular exercise (150 minutes of moderate activity per week)

• 🥦 Eating more fruit, vegetables, and wholefoods

• 🧂 Reducing salt intake

• ⚖️ Maintaining a healthy weight

• 🍷 Limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking

• 😴 Prioritising sleep and stress management

These aren’t quick fixes, but consistent habits really do add up. Over time, they can lower your blood pressure and even help you feel years younger.

Take action this week

✔ Get your blood pressure checked -at home, at your GP surgery, in a local pharmacy, or with a health professional.

✔ Encourage your friends and family to do the same.

At our studio, we’re offering free blood pressure checks this week. Our exercise physiologist Lucy is also available for more in-depth heart health assessments if you’d like a detailed look at your cardiovascular health - email her here to book.

High blood pressure isn’t something to fear - but it is something to be aware of. The earlier you know your numbers, the more power you have to take action.