Five Benefits Exercise Has on Your Heart

How Exercise Impacts Heart Health

While it’s common knowledge that exercise is good for you, many people might not know what the benefits of regular exercise are? Besides lowering stress, controlling body weight, and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety, here are some ways exercise can improve your heart health.

1. Reduce Your Chance of Heart Disease

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), people who are inactive and sit for too long are at more risk for heart disease and early death. However, the good news is, exercising regularly can help lower your risk. The AHA recommends that adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity for 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity throughout the week.

2. Prevent High Blood Pressure

Regular exercise can keep blood pressure at healthy levels. High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because, typically, there aren’t any symptoms. When high blood pressure is not treated, it could lead to a heart attack, stroke, and other health problems. Even if you do have a sound workout routine, keep an eye on your blood pressure by sticking to your regular well-visit where they will routinely check it.

3. Regulate Blood Sugar

Having high blood sugar can put you at risk for type 2 diabetes — and can come with a host of heart-related problems, including stroke, high blood pressure, and narrowing of the blood vessels. However, regular exercise and a healthy diet can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

4. Decreases LDL “Bad” Cholesterol in the Blood

LDL cholesterol contributes to fatty buildup in the arteries. The buildup in the arteries can increase the risk of a heart attack and stroke. However, regularly exercising throughout the week can help lower cholesterol. Try some of these fun aerobic activities (in addition to your normal athletic routine):

• Swimming
• Brisk walking
• Bicycling
• Dancing
• Jogging

5. Improves Sleep

You may not realize it, but getting enough sleep and heart health go hand and hand. Because exercise reduces stress and makes you more tired, you’ll sleep better and longer. Lack of sleep can be linked to developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, which are all health problems linked to cardiovascular disease. Improved sleep can help improve your athletic ability too.

Sports Medicine Services Near Dallas and Fort Worth

If you are looking to increase your overall performance and become a more skilled athlete, sports medicine can help.

Methodist Sports Medicine can not only help treat a current injury but prevent future ones too. See the full list of services we offer or to make an appointment, or contact us today!