why do i get a headache when i do a bridge?

Question

i'm training for a back walkover, but i stop after a short while because i get a headache, why?

i know its because the blood rushes down to my head, and that i'm upside down, but i get the headache very soon after i start, way earlier than my mates.

Answer 1

Becuase the blood rushes to your head. I think one way gymnasts get over this is to try to control their breathing so that their heart rate will not go up much when they move around.

Answer 2

First of all, everyone is different. Some people love going on roller coasters, some don't; some love going underwater, some don't; some get dizzy from these and similar activities, some don't. Most ice skaters get used to their dizzying acrobatics only because of strenuous, repetitious training.

Second, while it is normal for the blood to rush to your head, especially during such exercises, it is also likely that the fluid in your ear canal may be causing a little vertigo (dizziness) and/or the headaches you mentioned (again, everyone is different). Sometimes, relaxing your neck muscles allows more blood to flow more easily, and, thus, the headaches *might* go away. Of course, any such release of tension may be counter-productive to your athletic efforts, but training can help you work around that.

Third, there are medications you can take to avoid getting dizzy, but, since you put this question in the "Olympics" sub-forum, I would be remiss if I didn't point out that many drugs, even innocuous ones, such as anti-dizziness meds, are prohibited by many athletic competitions. Check with your coach, manager, agent, doctor, Olympic committee, etc.

Fourth, if you get dizzy or have headaches only during competitions, then it's probably nothing to worry about. However, any such occurrences during normal activities, should be a signal to see your parents and a physician.

Answer 3

With the blood rushing to your head so quickly, it causes headaches. If you're not used to doing it, try taking it slow at first... maybe only a couple "steps" at a time and expanding every few times... It also helps to do cardiovascular exercises BEFORE attempting a back walkover.

Best wishes.

Answer 4

you may have a spinal problem or pinched nerves. Go talk to a chiropractor or better yet a DO (Osteopathic Doctor). They'll be able to adjust you and help you with posture and movement and also see if it is a more serious problem. Stop doing the walkovers until you get examined.

Answer 5

I am no dr but it sounds like you may need a chiropractic adjustment

Answer 6

because ur head is upside down, it is harder for ur blood to climb back to ur heart because of gravity

Answer 7

it happened to me i even asked it about it but eventually it disappeared