1. Get Moving
The heart is the most important muscle in the body and it needs to work out to prevent high cholesterol, diabetes and high blood pressure, all factors that can cause heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of activity a day every day of the week. Very light movement counts when it comes to getting the heart working. Simple household chores, gardening and dancing all count towards that time limit. If you have been inactive for a long time, start with 10 minutes a day and build up to 30. You will be moving more within a week. Begin to take care of things around the house that you left to others. Vacuum, push a lawn mower and make numerous trips up and down the stairs to add pressure on the heart and get ready for some heavier exercise.
2. Walk to Good Health
Begin walking outside the home once you have become more active following a bout with heart problems. Start by walking to the end of your driveway or to the corner. Don't even time yourself. Just get the bones and your heart used to the activity. Set a goal and a time in which you reach it. Plan to walk around the block within two weeks, do a mile by the end of the month and two miles by your next birthday. Walking at any pace counts. After you reach your destination goals, then set time goals. Pick up the pace. Your walk should leave you feeling invigorated, yet still breathing easily.
3. Walk no Matter the Weather
Get a treadmill or elliptical machine in your home so you don't have to miss a day of walking. As easy as it is to get your body accustomed to daily walks, it's just as easy to get out of the habit and lose the momentum you've worked so hard to develop. If you don't want to clutter your home with exercise equipment, then designate a favorite indoor walking track such as your local mall or a large furniture store.
4. Run for Your Life
Anyone treating heart disease with exercise will marvel at the results. Many previous heart patients who get involved in a regular walking program become invigorated and look for more challenges. Exercise not only pumps your heart for more healthy circulation, it also produces endorphins, which are mood elevators. So the better you feel, the more excited you are about life and participating in it. Start jogging or running and working up a sweat. Join a gym and begin working on muscle strength and aerobic exercises. Participate in a sport that will challenge your skills and break up the monotony of daily walking. Start having fun and exercise won't be chore, but a chosen lifestyle.
