Exercise & Aging Well: Optimizing Your Cardiovascular Fitness
Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of cardiovascular health and healthy aging. At the Cardiac Longevity Clinic, our fitness specialists are committed to helping you develop a safe and effective exercise program tailored to your individual needs and fitness level.
The Benefits of Exercise for Heart Health
Engaging in regular physical activity offers numerous cardiovascular benefits, including:
Improved Cardiovascular Endurance: Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, strengthens your heart muscle and improves its ability to pump blood efficiently. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that regular aerobic exercise reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease by 11-18%.
Lower Blood Pressure: Exercise helps reduce blood pressure by promoting the relaxation of blood vessels and decreasing the workload on the heart. The American College of Cardiology recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week for optimal blood pressure control.
Enhanced Lipid Profile: Physical activity helps raise levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol, while reducing levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. The American Heart Association states that regular exercise can increase HDL cholesterol by up to 10%.
Exercise Recommendations for Healthy Aging
In addition to its cardiovascular benefits, exercise is crucial for maintaining physical function and independence as you age. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend the following for adults aged 65 and older:
At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, per week
Muscle-strengthening activities involving all major muscle groups at least twice per week
Balance/Stability training exercises, such as standing on one foot or walking heel-to-toe, to reduce the risk of falls
Personalized Exercise Prescriptions
At the Cardiac Longevity Clinic, we recognize that each individual has unique fitness needs and limitations. Our fitness specialists conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate your cardiovascular fitness, musculoskeletal health, and stability. Based on these assessments, we develop personalized exercise prescriptions that optimize your cardiovascular health while ensuring your safety and comfort.
Invest in your cardiovascular health and overall well-being through a tailored exercise program. Schedule a consultation with our expert team today and take the first step towards a fitter, healthier you.
Learn More About Our Unique Approach to Longevity
Address
Suite 201 (Second Floor)
1370 Clyde Avenue
Ottawa, ON
K2G 3H8
Contact
Phone: 613-366-2164
Fax: 613-761-1944
Email: [email protected]
Emergency Contact: 911 or go to your nearest ER
