Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in cells throughout the body.

While our bodies need cholesterol to produce hormones, Vitamin D, and other important substances, high levels of cholesterol can lead to serious health problems such as heart attacks and strokes. Exercise is an effective way to reduce cholesterol levels and improve overall cardiovascular health. Here are the best exercises to lower your cholesterol:.

1. Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic exercise is any form of exercise that increases your heart rate and breathing rate. Examples of aerobic exercise include running, cycling, swimming, and brisk walking.

Aerobic exercise has been shown to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and increase levels of HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol).

2. Resistance Training

Resistance training, also known as strength training, involves lifting weights or using resistance bands to build muscle. Resistance training can also improve cholesterol levels.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that resistance training reduced LDL cholesterol levels in overweight women.

3. High-Intensity Interval Training

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) involves short bursts of intense activity followed by periods of rest. HIIT has been shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels.

A study published in the Journal of Obesity found that HIIT reduced cholesterol levels in overweight adults.

4. Yoga

Yoga is a form of exercise that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Yoga has been shown to improve cholesterol levels.

A study published in the Journal of Yoga and Physical Therapy found that practicing yoga reduced cholesterol levels in overweight adults.

5. Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art that involves slow, gentle movements and deep breathing. Tai Chi has been shown to improve cholesterol levels.

A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that practicing Tai Chi reduced cholesterol levels in older adults.

6. Swimming

Swimming is a low-impact form of aerobic exercise that is easy on the joints. Swimming has been shown to improve cholesterol levels.

A study published in the International Journal of Cardiology found that regular swimming reduced cholesterol levels in adults with high cholesterol.

7. Cycling

Cycling is a form of aerobic exercise that can be done indoors or outdoors. Cycling can improve cholesterol levels. A study published in the Journal of Lipids found that regular cycling reduced cholesterol levels in adults with high cholesterol.

8. Brisk Walking

Brisk walking is a low-impact form of aerobic exercise that can be done almost anywhere. Brisk walking can improve cholesterol levels.

A study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that regular brisk walking reduced cholesterol levels in overweight women.

9. Dancing

Dancing is a fun form of aerobic exercise that can be done alone or with a partner. Dancing can improve cholesterol levels.

A study published in the Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention found that regular dancing reduced cholesterol levels in adults with high cholesterol.

10. Circuit Training

Circuit training involves performing a series of exercises in a circuit, with short rest periods between each exercise. Circuit training can improve cholesterol levels.

A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that circuit training reduced cholesterol levels in overweight adults.