Heart Pumping Cardio

Aerobic exercise is any cardiovascular activity that raises your heart rate. Activities that makes you break a sweat can help improve circulation and lower blood pressure. Some of the best exercises to keep your heart strong and reduce risk of heart disease and stroke include, walking, biking, swimming, and dancing.

TIPS TO EXERCISE SAFELY:

Talk to your doctor first. It is recommended to talk to your physician before starting any exercise program.

Stop if you don’t feel well. If you develop shortness of breath, tightness in chest, shoulder or jaw pain, dizziness or confusion, stop immediately and contact your physician.

Monitor heart rate. Reference a table showing target heart rate zones for different ages. You can visit heart.org for a chart from the American Heart Association.

Warm up and cool down. Every session of aerobic exercise should include a warm-up with a gradual increase in pace and a cool-down with the pace gradually decreasing.

“Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very far.” Thomas Jefferson