There’s no question that cardiovascular exercise is vital for people of all ages. Whether you are in excellent health or recently diagnosed with a condition, moving your body is key to maintaining wellness.
If you are just starting a new workout routine, give yourself time to build endurance. In the beginning, it’s best to start slow. Then increase the time and intensity of the workouts as you get stronger.
Talk to any heart doctor, and they will agree: any amount of exercise is beneficial. Making exercise a regular part of your routine can improve your heart health and help you live longer.
Here are a few of the best sports for heart health:
1. Walking and Running
Don’t underestimate the power of walking! This mild- to moderate-intensity exercise is a great place to start. Researchers have found that people who walk more each day have a lower risk for all-cause mortality.
As your endurance increases, start adding short bursts of jogging with your walking. Eventually, you will be able to run, which helps to increase your heart rate. Work to boost your speed and duration each week.
Schedule time for a walk in the morning or evening. Also, look for ways that walking can be a part of your normal activities. For example, walk to pick up the kids from school instead of driving. Or, walk to local restaurants or grocery stores instead of constantly spending time in the car. If there is inclement weather outside, you can walk on a treadmill while listening to a new audiobook.
2. Swimming
Jump in the pool and enjoy a full-body workout! This exercise helps strengthen your heart, improving how your circulation flows throughout the body. In fact, some doctors have suggested that regular swimming reduces the risk of heart disease by 40%!
Try swimming laps at the local recreation center. Or join a water aerobics class. One of the notable benefits of swimming is that you can increase your heart rate with an exercise that has a low impact on the joints.
3. Cycling
It doesn’t matter if you are joining a cycling class at the gym, on a stationary bike at home, or taking your bike outside: this sport is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Not only does cycling improve heart health, but it also helps with better joint mobility and boosts the metabolism.
If you want to build endurance, increase your stamina to cycle at high speeds. Also, work to increase your cycling sessions over time.
All Movement Is Good for the Heart
The most important thing you can do is find an exercise you enjoy. It’s easier to stay consistent with an activity that you love! All types of movement and cardio activities are beneficial for the heart. So, try different options to find the exercise that you prefer.
Written by Becki Andrus in partnership with best stethoscope manufacturer Stethoscope.com
