Hello McKinley!

How’s your heart today???  While this may seem like a weird question, it’s a very important one.  I hope most if not all of you are aware of your numbers (cholesterol, blood pressure and BMI) so you have a good idea of how your heart is doing J.  Once you know your numbers, even if you are in perfect health, it’s important for you to continue to keep your heart healthy.  There are many simple things you can do every day to improve and maintain your heart health but for now, I want to highlight physical activity.  Not only will you be strengthening your heart, you’ll also be earning points towards your $50 gift card for the McKinley Wellness Challenge!!!!!!

Physical activity is anything that makes you move your body and burn calories. Think of the basics: walking, running, biking, swimming, dancing etc. Think beyond the basics: Zumba, Spinning, HIIT, Circuit Training, Boxing etc.

The American Heart Association recommends the following amounts of physical activity to maintain cardiovascular health:

• At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least 5 days per week for a total of 150 minutes OR
• At least 25 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity at least 3 days per week for a total of 75 minutes; or a combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity.

AND

• Moderate- to high-intensity muscle-strengthening activity at least 2 days per week for additional health benefits.

For Lowering Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

• An average 40 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity aerobic activity 3 or 4 times per week

AHA has several resources for Heart-Healthy Exercise, click the link to check it out: https://www.goredforwomen.org/fight-heart-disease-women-go-red-women-official-site/live-healthy/exercise/

One more thing, if you ever find yourself short on time or energy…WALK!!  The infographic below reveals some really cool benefits that come from just WALKING!!