Why aerobic exercise is good for the heart

DeMeersman, Ph. McKinley, Ph. Flood, M. Kevin Tracey, M. Materials provided by Columbia University Medical Center. Note: Content may be edited for style and length. Science News. ScienceDaily, 21 March But what is the impact of regular exercise on the heart specifically? And how does all this effort translate to our overall health? We know regular exercise strengthens muscles, but it also helps the heart do a better job of pumping blood throughout the body. Check out seven heart-healthy reasons why regular cardiovascular work belongs in your exercise plan:.

Before you begin any new exercise plan, talk with your doctor about the best way to incorporate cardiovascular activity into your lifestyle. Not only can your doctor help establish a plan that safely and gradually increases your capacity for cardiovascular exercise, but he or she can also establish baselines for your blood pressure, resting heart rate and cholesterol that will allow you to track your success. Learn more.

Being physically active is a major step toward good heart health. Stewart, Ed. What it does: Aerobic exercise improves circulation, which results in lowered blood pressure and heart rate, Stewart says. In addition, it increases your overall aerobic fitness, as measured by a treadmill test, for example, and it helps your cardiac output how well your heart pumps. Aerobic exercise also reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and, if you already live with diabetes, helps you control your blood glucose.

How much: Ideally, at least 30 minutes a day, at least five days a week. Examples : Brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, playing tennis and jumping rope. Heart-pumping aerobic exercise is the kind that doctors have in mind when they recommend at least minutes per week of moderate activity.