Exercise, which requires you to sit less and move more, is an essential part of maintaining a healthy heart. Regular physical activity has been proven to positively impact many aspects of heart health, from reducing the risk of heart disease to improving mental health and reducing visceral fat. This benefits the heart by reducing the risk of heart disease, improving circulation, and increasing lean muscle mass. With the right knowledge and commitment, anyone can incorporate heart-healthy exercise into their daily life.
The role of aerobic exercise and strength training in heart health
According to the Cleveland Clinic, both aerobic exercise and strength training play important roles in promoting heart health. Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, plus an hour of strength training is recommended. Aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming, and cycling can help improve circulation and cardiovascular risk, while strength training can help increase lean muscle mass. Regular physical activity also has a positive impact on your mental health, reducing stress levels and increasing your motivation to continue exercising.
Start small: the key to sustainable exercise habits
For people new to fitness, it's important to start with a small, sustainable exercise routine and gradually increase it. This approach reduces your risk of injury and burnout, and increases your chances of maintaining your routine over the long term. Healthiapp highlights exercises like walking that are easy and free ways to get more physical. Regular walking not only strengthens your heart, but also improves blood circulation, reduces stress, boosts brain function, and helps with weight management.
Heart health and nutrition: a balanced approach
Dr. Elizabeth Jackson, a cardiologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Heart and Vascular Institute, emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet in addition to regular exercise. She suggests starting a healthy lifestyle from an early age to prevent heart disease in the future. Jackson recommends heart-healthy menus at restaurants and cooking at home, and warns against relying too much on protein supplements and powders. She also emphasizes the importance of healthy fats in the diet and recommends minimizing sugary foods and drinks for heart health.
Community programs and the power of nature: Promoting heart health
A variety of community programs focused on heart health provide resources and support for individuals seeking lifestyle improvements. Additionally, nature and art are also recognized to have beneficial effects on heart health. Medriva emphasizes the importance of establishing heart-healthy exercise habits for overall health, stating that regular exercise reduces stress, lowers the risk of heart disease, and improves cholesterol levels. and how it can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Incorporating heart-healthy exercise into your lifestyle doesn't have to be difficult. By starting small, focusing on balance, and leveraging local resources, you can go a long way towards improving your heart health and overall health.
