Incorporating walking or cycling into your daily routine can help prevent cardiovascular disease. Both activities provide a range of benefits for physical and mental health.
Benefits of Walking and Cycling
Walking briskly for at least thirty minutes daily can strengthen the rib cage, improve lung ventilation, and promote heart health. It can also positively affect psychological well-being by reducing stress and anxiety.
Cycling is a full-body strengthening activity, including the muscles of the heart. The pedaling motion promotes blood circulation and helps lower blood pressure. It also provides stress and anxiety relief.
Movement and Heart Health
Regular physical activity helps prevent conditions that adversely affect circulation and heart health, such as a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It can also counter more severe problems like strokes, heart attacks, and atherosclerosis.
When to Consult a Doctor
Individuals with pre-existing conditions, or those starting physical activity from scratch or after a long rest, should consult their doctor for guidance on safe engagement in exercise.
Those who have recovered from COVID-19 should gradually resume physical activity and avoid intense exertion until fully recovered.
Using a Heart Rate Monitor
Monitoring the heart rate during physical activity is helpful to gauge the level of effort and fatigue. Using a heart rate monitor is recommended, which can provide insights into suitable training intensity. Advanced monitors can even perform electrocardiograms during exercise and send the results directly to doctors, assisting in managing patients with heart conditions. This technology is expected to become increasingly utilized in the future.
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance related to physical activity and heart health.
