A strong heart is a key to a long life. And what’s one of the best ways to keep your heart strong? Regular activity that gets your blood pumping.
Cardio exercise that makes you sweat is great for circulation. When you work out to a rhythm for a decent stretch of time, it strengthens your heart and blood vessels. This kind of activity can also help you manage your blood pressure and blood sugar. Plus, it’s a helpful way to reach and maintain a healthy weight. Cardio exercise can even boost your mood!
Looking for specific exercises? You might try:
- Walking
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- A simple stroll is a great way to start with physical activity. It gets you into a habit of movement and strains your body less than other exercises. And when you’re ready to sweat a little, you can simply pick up the pace into a brisk walk.
- Jogging
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- Going for a jog gives your heart even more benefits than a walk. The faster pace and energy can burn more calories in less time and improve your circulation.
- Biking
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- You can really go the distance on a bike. If you get bored easily, a scenic bike ride is a great way to get out and pass the time while getting your body moving.
- Swimming
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- Joint pain can put a damper on physical activity. The beauty of swimming is that it’s very low impact, so you can move your body more freely while still getting your heart rate up.
- Rowing
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- Want to take your cardio to the next level? Engage your whole body by rowing. You can use a rowing machine, or even enjoy an actual rowing group on the water. This is amazing cardio activity, and it also builds muscle in the legs, arms and back.
- Dancing
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- What’s a more fun way to move your body than by dancing? You could follow along to a home workout video or even join an in-person class in your area.
- And more!
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- Find your favorite form of cardio activity. If you pick something you enjoy, you’re more likely to stick with it. You can also switch it up from time to time to keep things fresh!
Pro Tip—it’s best to do this type of exercise:
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- Most days of the week
- At least 10 minutes at a time
- With a goal of 150 minutes or more per week
Of course, check with your doctor or a coach before you start any new kind of exercise.
If you’re just starting out, go easy on yourself. Start with light exercise. As you get used to it and you feel stronger, try kicking up the intensity little by little.
Doing this kind of exercise often and in a set routine will help keep your heart in good health!
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