Just like any muscle, your heart needs exercise. In fact, exercise is one of the best things you can do to improve the strength and efficiency of your heart. Regular exercise may help reduce your risk of heart disease by half! Additionally, it may increase your body’s ability to utilize oxygen, subsequently improving your circulation and your heart’s ability to pump. As a result, your heart becomes stronger and more efficiently pushes blood throughout your body with the help of your lungs. Try these tips to help you get started with, maintain, and maximize a heart-healthy exercise routine!
- Check with your doctor prior to getting started to confirm you’re okay to start and try new forms of exercise based on your health.
- Find the ideal workout option for you! Choosing something that you find enjoyable, fits within your lifestyle, and is appropriate for your fitness level and goals is beneficial for follow-through. Determine your best option with the help of these tips.
- Exercise based on your age group. This past year, new physical activity guidelines were released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to help direct people how to exercise based on their age group. Learn about exercise requirements based on your age here and here.
- Assess the effectiveness of your routine to ensure you’re getting the right kinds of exercise. Learn more here.
- Stay active whenever you’re able—even if it means fitting fitness into your lunch or when you’re traveling.
- Understand your target heart rate to maximize your workout. Exercising at the correct intensity level can help you get the most out of your physical activity. Click here to learn more!
- Start your day in a healthy way with a quick workout that will get your heart pumping. For more quick workouts, click here!
- Keep it up! Learn how to maintain your exercise momentum here.
Remember, any exercise is better than no exercise! Always talk to your doctor prior to beginning a new workout routine.
