Being physically active is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent
heart disease. It doesn't take a lot of effort to become physically active. All you need is 30 minutes of moderate-level exercise on most days of the week. If you already engage in 30 minutes of moderate-level exercise a day, you can get added benefits by doing more or choosing a more vigorous activity.
Most people don't need to see a doctor before they start a moderate-level exercise program. However, you should check first with your doctor if you:
- Have heart trouble or have had a heart attack
- Are over age 50 and are not used to moderate-level physical activity
- Have a family history of heart disease at an early age
- Have any other serious health problem.
Heart Disease and Exercise: Getting Started
Get started by doing 30 minutes of a moderate-level activity on most, and preferably all, days of the week. Brisk walking, bicycling, and gardening are examples of moderate-level physical activity. You can even divide the 30 minutes into shorter periods of at least 10 minutes each. For instance:
- Use stairs instead of an elevator
- Get off a bus one or two stops early
- Park your car at the far end of the lot at work.
Heart Disease and Exercise: What Is Moderate-Level Activity?
The following sections provide examples of moderate-level physical exercises that a person can incorporate into his or her daily routine.
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