Exercising is the best way to keep your heart healthy. It can keep your blood pressure in check, help you maintain a healthy weight, and improve your overall wellbeing. However, not all exercises are created equal when it comes to heart health.
Here are the top four heart exercises for optimal health:.
1. Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise is any activity that increases your heart rate and makes you breathe harder. Running, cycling, swimming, and dancing are all excellent aerobic exercises.
Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week to keep your heart healthy. If you’re just starting, aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per day, five days a week.
2. Strength Training
Strength training is important for heart health because it helps build muscle. The more muscle you have, the more calories your body burns at rest. This can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important for heart health.
Strength training also helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Aim to do strength training exercises at least two times per week.
3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest. HIIT has been shown to improve cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure.
HIIT can be done with any exercise, such as running, cycling, or jumping jacks. Aim to do HIIT exercises for 30 seconds to one minute, followed by a period of rest. Repeat this cycle for 10-20 minutes.
4. Yoga
Yoga is great for heart health because it helps reduce stress. Stress can cause high blood pressure and other heart problems. Yoga also helps improve flexibility and balance, which can reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
Aim to do yoga for at least 30 minutes per day, three times a week.
In conclusion, these four exercises are great for heart health. Incorporate them into your fitness routine to keep your heart healthy and improve your overall wellbeing.