The function of your cardiovascular system is to pump oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the tissues of your body. The “cardio” in the word cardiovascular refers to your heart. Your heart’s contribution is its pumping action that moves the blood throughout your body. The “vascular” refers to your blood vessels, which include the arterial system that carries blood from your heart to your organs, and the venous system which carries blood back from your organs to your heart. With that basic understanding of the cardiovascular system, you can now see the importance of strengthening it through fitness! Just as you would lift weights to strengthen your biceps, it is equally important to strengthen your heart. Poor cardiovascular health can lead to:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
2 Tips to make a change:
- Get moving! Grab a friend or family member and start taking walks. If you’re a beginner its best to keep a pace slightly above a leisurely stroll. Once you’ve conquered that, step it up. Walk a little faster and then slowly turn it into a jog. Make sure you keep slow and steady breaths and don’t over-do it! It’s okay to push yourself but you need to listen to your body, and when it has had enough, stop.
- Make better choices in your diet. Cut back on the fried food and red meat, and increase your lead proteins and veggies. When consuming large amounts of junk food, plaque can build up in your arteries and block blood flow to your heart. Eating better can help you live longer.
For help choosing a program that is right for you call and speak to one of our physical therapists in the Clermont 34711 area!
