According to the American Heart Association, “The facts are clear: Regular physical activity benefits people who have heart disease as well as those who don’t.”
“Even 30 minutes of activity – and it doesn’t need to be high-impact aerobics – five days a week provide us with lots of benefits,” says Hailee Rich, a certified fitness professional and supervisor, WakeMed Healthworks Fitness & Wellness Centers, Raleigh & Cary.
Are There Significant Benefits to Regular Physical Activity?
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower “bad” (LDL) cholesterol
- Decreased feelings of stress
- Better blood sugar control
- Healthier weight
- Reduce risk of memory issues and depression
- Better sleep
Regular physical activity is important for everyone, even those who have chronic health conditions or disabilities. These individuals can be active according to their abilities and health care provider’s advice.
Just How Much Exercise Is Necessary?
The American Heart Association defines regular physical activity as 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (or an equivalent combination) each week. Preferably, activity should be spread throughout the week. Even greater benefits can be achieved at up to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week.
How Do I Get Started with an Exercise Routine?
“If you do not have a chronic condition or disability, you likely do not need to consult your doctor about exercise,” explains Rich. “People who have chronic health conditions such as heart disease should talk to their health care provider first. There are specialty programs which are led or overseen by fitness and health care professionals to ensure people have the support they need to exercise safely.”
Where are WakeMed Healthworks Locations?
WakeMed Healthworks Fitness & Wellness locations in Raleigh and Cary offer equipment, facilities, programming and safety measures for people of all fitness levels.
How Do I Join WakeMed Healthworks?
Our locations in Cary and Raleigh welcome you to try three visits for free to see if our facilities are right for you. Please call our Cary locations at 919-350-7003 or our Raleigh location at 919-350-8602 for more information.
