There are many lifestyle risks that can lead to Heart Disease, the most common cause of death in the United States.  Physical inactivity is a main one, and incorporating exercise into your weekly routine is a simple task when it comes to extending your healthy life.  Aerobic physical activity may greatly reduce your risk for heart attack, stroke, and many other life-threatening diseases.  The commonly used word “cardio” can be scary, but the trick is to find an aerobic exercise that you enjoy and will not get bored of right away.

Aerobic activity examples:

• Bicycling
• Brisk Walking
• Dancing
• Swimming
• Pushing a Lawn Mower

This type of exercise is most beneficial for the cardiorespiratory system because of the stress applied to move more air through the lungs, and the heart to pump more blood.  The body responds and eventually adapts to the continued stress, which eventually increases the efficiency of the cardiovascular system.

Dr. Diane Bild, a cardiovascular epidemiologist at The National Institute of Health, reported that “At least 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate-intensity physical activity can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and diabetes…”  Choosing entertaining activities and spreading them out throughout the week, allows making time for physical activity much more likely for busy adults.  Also, try looking for a support system or a workout buddy, so that you can be held accountable.

Another thing to remember is that some exercise is better than none.  Tasks as easy as taking the stairs, or parking in the back parking spot at work, can be beneficial.  Physical activity can also reduce depression and fatigue, while promoting weight loss and an all-over healthy lifestyle.

For more information on Cardiovascular Disease, see these links:

7 Heart Disease Risk Factors You Can Change

Hereditary Heart Disease

Preventing Heart Attacks