Working Out for Better Heart Health

When people plan to workout, they consider several major muscles in their bodies. Some people want muscular arms while others are trying to get tighter abdominal muscles. But sometimes people forget the most important muscle in your body is your heart. If your heart is unhealthy, it can lead to serious health conditions or even death. In fast, heart failure is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Working out is the ultimate way to achieve better heart health and could even help you live longer. Discover how to improve your heart and what workouts could work for you.

What is Heart Disease?

Coronary artery disease occurs when calcium, cholesterol and fatty deposits start to build up in the inner lining of your arteries. This causes the arteries to get narrower or become blocked. As a result, oxygenated blood cannot get to your heart. This can lead to a weakened heart muscle and heart failure, including a heart attack. Exercising is a way to workout this essential muscle and help minimize your risk of developing cardiovascular problems.

What Role Does Exercise Play in Heart Health?

Your heart needs to be worked out, just like the rest of the muscles in your body. While you can see your leg muscles or abs, it is harder to see what sedentary behavior is doing to your heart. Aerobic exercise boost the flow of blood and oxygen to your heart. It can help you burn fat and build a stronger heart. Aerobic exercise includes activities such as walking, running, biking, rowing and swimming. Engaging in these activities can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Exercise?

Exercising just 30 minutes each day can improve your heart health. Engaging in exercise everyday can reduce stress, help you shed pound and improve your blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Moderate aerobic activities, such as walking or swimming, can make a big difference. If you want to lose weight, you can build up to working out 60 or 90 minutes each day. Losing just 8 percent of your overall body weight can help you become healthier and minimize your chances of getting heart disease.

How Can I Exercise at Home?

People who have hectic schedules or limited opportunities to travel my prefer to exercise at home. It can be difficult to go out for a walk or bike ride when it is raining, showing or very hot outdoors. For these reasons and more, many people decide to invest in fitness equipment they can use at home. Seated elliptical machines put exercise in reach for people of all fitness levels. The XRide 6000 provides an outstanding workout and comfortable seating to ensure anyone can start to improve their heart health.

What Role Does Diet Play?

Enhance your exercise routine by eating a well-balanced diet. This includes fresh fruit and vegetables, fat-free or low-fat dairy products and whole grains. Choose lean meats or cut away the fat and fish is another great diet option. Eat plenty of greens and try to stay away from fattening fast foods and packaged foods. Always consult with your doctor before starting any diet and exercise routine.