How to Have a Healthy Heart
Date: 02/14/25
Let’s celebrate healthy habits for a happy heart all year long. Here are some free and easy ways to add a little cardio to your day. Boost your heart health without hitting the gym.
- Hit up some free apps. Looking for a quick workout? Browse your phone's app shop for free apps that can add exercise to your day. There are a lot of workouts that focus on specific areas of the body, including your arms, chest, back and legs. Or you can find ones that provide short workouts that fit your schedule.
- Jump around. Short on time and space? Get jumping! Try doing 10 sets of jumping jacks and increase your reps by 10 each week to build up your strength. The average calories burned for 10 minutes of jumping jacks is more than 100 for a 150-pound person! Plus, there is the added bonus of lowered blood pressure, stronger muscles and reduced stress.
- Walk it out. Take a stroll and enjoy nature. Too cold or not in a walkable area? Hit the mall and take advantage of the space to window-shop and get your steps in. You can even “house walk” — which is the practice of walking around your home or marching in place.
- Get in the groove. Turn up the tunes and dance like no one is watching. Get creative and try different styles like hip-hop, swing or salsa. Different dance styles can help you use a variety of motions and engage multiple muscle groups. You’ll not only get your heart pumping, you'll burn calories and increase your energy too!
- Every step counts. Tackle your to-do list by walking instead of driving to pick things up. If taking a leisurely walk isn’t possible, you can still add other activities. Find a parking spot further away from where you’re going. Switch it up and take the stairs. If you’re using public transit, hop off one or two stops early and walk the extra distance.