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Valentine’s Day has come and gone but the entire month of February is devoted to “Matters of the Heart”.    The American Heart Association declares each February “Heart Health Month”.   Along with a sound nutrition program, exercise is a powerful ally in keeping us young at heart – literally.

All exercise is good.  What you choose depends on individual goals and levels of conditioning.  The most important thing to remember is to make it sustainable.  The American Heart Association recommends thirty minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity five days per week or, 25 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity three days per week. Balance aerobics with strength training a couple of times a week. This will ensure a

well-rounded program and that you maintain lean muscle while losing weight. Before beginning any exercise program make sure you have physician clearance.

Finding something you enjoy and know you will engage in on a regular basis will provide a lifetime of benefits such as:

strengthening of bones and muscles

better management of conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia

increased endurance

improved sleep

improved cognitive function

increase in joint mobility

improved balance and flexibility

reduces stress and depression

helps maintain healthy blood pressure

prevent or delay type 2 diabetes

In general, exercise keeps us happy and healthy.  So, give your heart a break (the good kind, that is).   Eat healthy, move, move, move, and your heart will be the gift that keeps on giving.