Newnan foot and ankle surgeon recommends exercise as a crucial element in maintaining heart health. According to the American Heart Association, physical inactivity is a major risk factor for heart disease. Therefore, incorporating regular exercise in your daily routine can help reduce the risk of heart disease and provide numerous health benefits.
Benefits of Exercise on Heart Health
Regular exercise can improve heart health in various ways. Here are some benefits of exercise on heart health:
Reduces Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Exercise can help regulate blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of developing hypertension. It also helps in managing existing high blood pressure levels.
Improves Cholesterol Levels
Exercise can help increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, which is also known as “good cholesterol.” High levels of HDL can help remove low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is “bad cholesterol,” from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Manages Diabetes
Being diabetic can lead to an increased risk of developing heart disease. Regular exercise can help manage diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels in the body, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Reduces Body Fat
Exercise can help reduce body fat, which in turn can reduce the risk of heart disease. Excessive body weight can lead to heart disease; therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for heart health.
What Type of Exercise is Best for Heart Health?
There are various types of exercise that can be included in your routine for maintaining heart health. Here are some best exercises for heart health:
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, and dancing can help improve heart health by strengthening the heart and lungs. These exercises can also help regulate blood pressure levels, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce body fat.
Strength Training
Strength training exercises such as weight lifting can help build muscle mass, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It can also help in increasing metabolism, which can aid in weight loss.
Yoga
Yoga can help in reducing stress levels, which can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate. It can also help improve flexibility and balance, making it easier to perform other exercises.
How Much Exercise is Required?
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week for maintaining heart health. This can be broken down into 30 minutes of exercise, five days a week.
Conclusion
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining heart health. The benefits of exercise on heart health are numerous, including reducing blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, managing diabetes, and reducing body fat. Incorporating aerobic exercise, strength training, and yoga in your daily routine can help maintain heart health. It is recommended to exercise at least 150 minutes per week to maintain heart health. So, make exercise a part of your daily routine and keep your heart healthy.
