Improve Your Heart Health with Physical Activity

Exercise is essential for promoting your heart health! From online workout videos to grabbing a group of friends for a game of soccer at the park, there’s lots of ways to fill in those physical activity minutes!  Even small changes that integrate exercise into your daily routine like, biking to work, taking the stairs, or having a family walk after dinner, can make a difference in promoting your heart health!

Here are some suggestions for how to fit physical activity into your busy schedule to further improve your heart health this American Heart Month and every month!

• Work out for free in the comfort of your own home: Follow fun exercise videos on YouTube or find online workout routines that align with your fitness goals.
• Grab a group of friends and head to the park for a fun game of football or tennis.
• Take a fitness class at your local community center: From Pilates to Zumba dancing, the options are endless! Research free or inexpensive fitness classes near you.
• If weather permits, try biking to school or work: It can be a great way to sneak aerobic exercise into your day! Also, try to opt for walking and biking over driving to help your body and the environment!
• Start your morning with a boost of energy by going on a jog or brisk walk: Get a friend or neighbor to join or make the perfect playlist to stay motivated and have more fun!

Exercise reduces the risk of developing heart disease! The current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans states that:

• Preschool-aged children (ages 3 through 5 years) should be physically active throughout the day to enhance growth and development.
• Children and adolescents (ages 6 through 17 years) should do 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily.
• Adults should do at least 150 minutes to 300 minutes a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes to 150 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity.
• Older Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity physical activity. If chronic conditions prevent older adults from meeting this guideline, it is recommended that they should at least be as physically activity as their abilities and conditions allow.