Lifting while on blood thinners

Medical Q&A [Moderated]
1

I have a medical issue that requires me to be on blood thinners indefinitely (I have recovered from the underlying issue but will likely continue to be on blood thinners as a precaution. I do not feel limited by anything other than the risk that being on blood thinners itself poses). Do you have any general suggestions to modify (or not) weight training to accommodate limitations due to this kind of medication? I of course spoke to my medical providers. I received some mixed advice, and I felt somewhat unsure about the advice in context of an experienced lifter. For example, one provider told me not to lift more than 50 pounds, insisting it was a “lifestyle” change. Following such advice would be a drastic change to my lifting routine.

What do you make of that advice?

Do you have more general thoughts about lifting weights in blood thinners?

2

I can’t speak to your specific situation here without more medical details, but there is rarely a justifiable basis for these types of arbitrary, indefinite weight restrictions.

Speaking in general, outside of avoiding traumatic impacts, there are no specific lifting modifications necessary in this context.