One of the greatest things you can do to help your heart is to work it, according to the American Heart Association.
Lack of physical activity is a great contributor to coronary artery disease, but luckily is one that is easy to do something about, according to the heart association. “You have to be in great shape to survive a sedentary lifestyle”, says Mike Lofland, M.A., M.R.E., director of the Texas Health Fitness Center HEB. Physical activity helps build endurance, muscle strength, flexibility, and efficiency of heart functioning.
“For many individuals there are a host of health conditions that are difficult to control to lower the risk of heart disease,” Lofland said. “One thing that is pretty easy to fit in is some sort of vigorous activity every day. Individuals may not love putting in time at the gym or running or walking through their neighborhood, but it makes a great impact on a person’s heart health.”
When deciding what exercise program is appropriate, the American Heart Association recommends that individuals look at three factors:
• Frequency – How many times week
• Intensity – How much exertion
• Time- How long the workout lasts
For most healthy people, the association recommends moderate-to-vigorous activity at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week. Activities such as walking, climbing stairs, jogging, bicycling, swimming and aerobic exercise all count. There are activities for every fitness level.
Regardless of health status, individuals should always consult their physician before beginning an exercise program.
For more information, visit www.TexasHealth.org.
Mike Lofland, M.A., M.R.E.,
director of the Texas Health Fitness Center HEB
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