Whether it’s aerobics, Zumba, yoga or even serious weight training; it’s important for you and your family to get physically active. Aim for about 150 minutes of physical activity each week, and while it’s great to give in to gym equipment, try some cardiovascular training sessions such as HIIT (high intensity interval training), FIT 4:15 a great combination of cardio and resistance, or take up swimming to keep that heart pumping. Regular exercise not only helps you keep fit and healthy, it also increases energy levels, improves quality of sleep and boosts feel good factors for your heart and body.
In addition, you also need a nutritious diet, and choosing foods that look after your heart is a lot easier than you think. Limiting fat intake and avoiding sugar, excess salt and saturated or trans-fat, makes a lot of difference to your heart. Fruits and vegetables are high in vitamins, minerals and fibre as well as low in calories. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables helps control weight and blood pressure. Choosing lean meat and poultry lets you enjoy your meal and also keeps the heart happy. Legumes, eggs, cereals and grains along with dairy are great to maintain a healthy heart.
Always remember, fitness is about improving muscular strength, cardio-respiratory strength and endurance, and flexibility through regular physical activity. Fuel your body with the right food, build it with the right workout regime and maintain it with right partner. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can also lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and can reduce the risk of many illnesses along with heart disease. Being in good shape can give you more energy, reduce anxiety and depression, improve self-esteem, and help you better manage stress. In short, it is your ticket to a ’Happy Heart’.
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