Cardiologist’s “#1 exercise” to help prevent a heart attack
If you’re looking for one simple exercise, brisk walking is an excellent choice. There isn’t one exercise proven to be the single best for everyone, but regular aerobic activity substantially lowers cardiovascular risk. The American Heart Association specifically lists brisk walking as a moderate-intensity activity.
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www.heart.org
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A practical target
Aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking, 5 days a week—about 150 minutes weekly.
“Brisk” generally means you’re breathing harder and your heart is beating faster, but you can still talk.
If you’re inactive, start with 5–10 minutes and gradually increase.
Add strength training at least 2 days a week for additional health benefits.
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www.heart.org
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You don’t have to walk continuously for 30 minutes. Short walks throughout the day count toward your activity total.
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www.heart.org
Regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol, manage weight and diabetes, and reduce the risk of heart disease and heart attack.
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www.heart.org
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Important: If you have known heart disease, significant symptoms with exertion, or you’ve been sedentary for a long time, talk with your healthcare professional before suddenly starting vigorous exercise. If exercise causes chest pressure/pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder, stop and seek emergency medical care.
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