A regular exercise program is essential for heart health. Exercise affects all the other heart disease risk factors in a positive way. It helps to normalize blood pressure, increase the level of healthy cholesterol (HDL), and aids in weight and blood sugar control. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Begin an exercise program slowly. Many people try to make up for years of inactivity by overdoing it. They get sore muscles and/or injure themselves. Try just a few minutes a day of a simple activity like walking, and add a few minutes a week until you can do 30 minutes without stopping. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
Choose an activity that you enjoy doing. You will eventually quit if you have chosen a form of exercise that you don’t like. You should vary your routine from time to time to avoid boredom and prevent overuse injuries. Exercising to music or using DVDs can add enjoyment.
Find a family member or friend to be your exercise buddy. Most people are more likely to stay with an activity program if they have a companion.
Fit your activity into your daily schedule. Decide what works best for you. Will you be more likely to maintain your exercise program if you join a club or formal program to get started? Perhaps a piece of home equipment would be more convenient. Or maybe you would enjoy walking ( the simplest and the cheapest).
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