By now, we probably all understand that regular exercise is good for us. And one of the most important benefits you get from working out is improving your heart health.
When it comes to working out, you have a lot of options. According to Johns Hopkins, here are three types of exercise that keep your heart healthy:
1. Aerobic Exercise
One type of exercise that’s good for your heart is aerobic exercise. This includes activities like walking, running, cycling, swimming, skating, and rowing. Most aerobic movements involve your whole body while moving at a moderate intensity. As a result, aerobic exercise will elevate your heart rate but not to high intensities.
The goal of aerobic exercise is to get your blood circulating throughout your whole body. And that’s why it’s so good for your heart! The CDC recommends:
“adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) to 300 minutes (5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity.”
2. Strength Training
Another type of exercise that’s good for your heart is strength training or resistance training. Resistance training comes in many forms. You can build strength using weight machines, free weights, resistance bands, as well as your own body weight.
Strength training is good for your heart because it improves your lean body mass and promotes a healthy body composition. And the combination of aerobic exercise with strength training leads to even more health benefits. The CDC guidelines for strength training recommend two or more days per week of exercises that target the whole body.
3. Flexibility & Stretching
Stretching may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to heart health, but improving your flexibility does contribute to a healthy heart. Flexibility training, such as stretching, yoga, or tai chi, improves your range of motion and comfort in doing other activities.
The benefit of flexibility is indirect, but the effect is less pain and other muscle issues. You should do flexibility exercises most days of the week. And after you finish up a workout that targets your aerobic endurance or strength training is a great time to work on flexibility!
If you’re ready to get back into working out after an extended break, great! Just remember to take your time and give your body time to adjust.
And if you’re not sure how to get started, the staff at McKendree Metro RecPlex put you on the right track. To learn more about our fitness programs, contact us today.
