Be active everyday
Regular, moderate physical activity is good for your heart. Physical activity can help control other risk factors such as high blood pressure and being overweight. For health benefits, you should aim to include at a least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity (such as brisk walking) on most if not all of the days of the week. The amount of activity can be accumulated in shorter bouts, such as three 10-minute walks.
If you enjoy regular physical activity, it’s likely you will:
• Live longer
• Be less likely to have a heart attack
• Feel more energetic
• Manage your weight better
• Have a healthy blood cholesterol level
• Have lower blood pressure
• Have stronger bones and muscles
• Feel more confident, happy, relaxed and able to sleep better
Here are a few tips to help you make physical activity a part of your day:
• Choose activities you enjoy – that way, you’ll be more likely to keep doing them
• Vary the type of activity you do so that you don’t become bored with the one thing. You’ll increase your chance of maintaining your activity thought life
• Set yourself small, realistic goals for your activity. For example, saying something like, “Tomorrow I’ll start with a 10-minute walk to buy my lunch”
• Set aside certain times of the day, or one period that suits you, to be active – you’re more likely to be committed if you schedule it into your routine
• Be active with friends, family, your partner or join a group. This way you can motivate and encourage one another. The social support you may gain from being active with others can also improve your health.
Why not join a Heart Foundation walking group? It’s a free, safe and fun way to be active and stay committed. Click here to find one near you.
It’s a good idea to consult your doctor and get some advice before you begin or increase physical activity, especially if you are over the age of 45.