How Much Exercise Do You Need to Prevent Heart Disease?

Todays boomers have higher energy, and are more active, than earlier generations. Though conventional thinking assumed physical exercise at higher intensities was hazardous to mature adults susceptible to heart disease, recent studies at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, find that vigorous exercise even in brief 15-minute sessions throughout the day can be highly beneficial for the heart.

Sustained cardio respiratory movement at levels of greater intensity, such as jogging, aerobics, and swimming, causes blood vessels in the body to expand, allowing blood to travel through the body easier and faster. Presently, there is no definitive conclusion as to the amount of activity required to help ward-off coronary heart disease. Discussion is still open as to the most effective degrees of energy exertion and daily frequency. However, research shows that blood pressure and blood sugar levels are lowered through daily exercise, roughly 30 60 minutes.

Regular cardio activity can help people shed pounds, but the Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research in Dallas, recently found that being physically fit is even healthier for the heart than simply losing extra weight. Those who were thin, but out of shape, had a higher risk of death from heart disease than those deemed overweight, yet athletically fit.

A robust, active lifestyle can also influence other decisions affecting heart health. Wisconsin Congressman David Cullen, whose brother died of a heart attack at age 40, believes his practice of regular exercise encourages him to make other positive choices. He shares that "The more I run, the less likely I am to want junk food."