exercise good for heart - #13946
I am really worried about my heart health lately. Like, I’ve been feeling kinda out of breath really easily, and my doc said something about my cholesterol being a bit high. I’ve never been super active, but I keep hearing that exercise good for heart, right? I had this friend who always said “exercise good for heart” like a mantra, and I started wondering if it can actually help me even though I feel like I’m starting from scratch. I tried jogging a bit last week, and while I really want to get into it, I ended up feeling lightheaded and realized maybe I’m not doing it right. Can someone explain, like, what sorts of exercises are best? I mean, is walking really considered or do I need to hit the gym? I feel confused about how much exercise is actually good for heart health and what kind of activities I should be looking to do. I just want to be sure I’m not overdoing it and making things worse. What if I can’t keep up? Exercise good for heart seems too good to be true sometimes, or maybe I’m just skeptical. How do I start making better choices without feeling overwhelmed?
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Doctors’ responses
Exercise is indeed one of the best things you can do for your heart health, and you’re on the right track thinking about it. To begin with, regular physical activity can help reduce your cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular health. Since you’re starting from scratch and have experienced lightheadedness while jogging, it’s important to ease into a new workout routine gradually to prevent overexertion. Walking is an excellent choice and absolutely considered effective. It’s gentle on your body while still offering heart health benefits, improving circulation, and helping control weight. You might aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking on most days to start.
If you prefer variety, consider other low-impact activities like cycling or swimming, which are also great for heart health. Keep in mind that you might not need to hit the gym if that feels daunting. Home workouts, or incorporating more active routines into daily tasks, work just as well. Aim for a mix of aerobic exercise and strength training. Moderate-intensity activities like dancing or gardening are equally beneficial, so your options are vast.
When it comes to frequency, you can gradually build up to about 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly. It’s essential to listen to your body; if you feel lightheaded, that’s a sign to slow down or pause. Consider speaking to your doctor about your new exercise plans, especially if you have underlying concerns. They can offer personalised guidance based on your overall health, ensuring you approach this safely. As you progress, consistency is key, so focus on creating a sustainable and enjoyable routine that you’ll stick with over the long haul.
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