Guest post by Dr. Rachelle Sultana, PhD, AEP, M Clin Ex Phys, B Ex Sp Sci
By now, the role of physical activity and exercise in promoting better health is universally accepted. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 27% of adults do not meet its recommended levels of physical activity. If we factor in adolescents, the figure jumps to a staggering 80%.
Physical inactivity is among the most important behavioral risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as heart disease and stroke. It is clear that exercise, along with a healthy diet, is crucial in preventing heart disease.
Best exercises for heart health
Exercising regularly offers many positive benefits for heart health. Exactly why is exercise good for the heart? Well, it can help lower your blood pressure, support you in maintaining a healthy body weight, and reduce inflammation throughout your body.
Having said that, what type of exercise is best for your heart? Studies show that 3 kinds of exercise can boost your heart’s health:
Aerobic exercise
Aerobic exercise pumps the heart and can help improve circulation, lower your blood pressure and heart rate as well as improve your overall aerobic fitness. Good examples of aerobic exercise include walking, cycling, swimming and aquatic exercises, and racket sports.
Resistance/strength training
Training with resistance can help reduce body fat and build lean muscle mass. You can do resistance training using your body weight, free weights such as dumbbells, exercise bands, or exercise machines.
Studies show that combining aerobic exercise with strength training may help lower LDL or bad cholesterol and raise HDL or good cholesterol levels.
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