Fitness by Jennifer Cox How fitness can improve your Heart Health Everyone needs to add cardiovascular activity to their daily regimen I’ve been teaching my three-year-old son about his body via a book entitled “My Amazing Body,” and it’s a fantastic read that delves into the intricacies of the human makeup, but in a simplified way for children to understand. Lesson 1: The heart. “The heart is like your own little engine.” That’s right…your heart health needs to be a top priority, as it affects every other part of your body. So take note of these fun exercises for seniors, so that you can use fitness to improve your own heart health. But remember to always consult your physician before engaging in any new exercise regimen. Aerobics Aerobics are fun because they get you moving! The classes are usually high-energy, meaning that they’re engaging, challenging and totally beneficial to your cardiovascular health. Look for classes aimed at seniors for a more low-impact session. Zumba If you love to dance, then you’ll love Zumba. The beat is always contagious, and you’ll feel more like you’re in a dance club than attending an exercise class. Swimming/ water aerobics Every city has a local pool and, sometimes, you can get a membership. Swimming is an ideal heart-healthy workout because it’s low impact, given that you’re in the water. It works out all parts of your body and it’s fantastic for cardiovascular stimulation. If swimming laps is a bit too repetitive and mundane for you, then join a water aerobics class. Dance class Some dance studios offer classes that would be suitable to baby boomers, from ballroom dancing to line dancing, salsa, or whatever your forte is. Not only will you have fun and stay fit, you’ll meet great people too. Tai chi Meditate and move from pose to pose in this slow, yet effective, workout. It is gentle on joints and a good option if you’re looking for physical activity that is low impact. Yoga Many baby boomers find that yoga is a great all-around form of exercise. It helps reduce stress and improve circulation, it involves flexibility and it’s been proven to help keep the heart up to snuff. This is something for which you could take a class, or there are many videos on the Internet for you to practise yoga in the comfort of your own home. Gardening Perhaps not your “typical” form of exercise, gardening, nonetheless, is a great way to get in some heart-healthy fitness. It entails stretching, bending and squatting, and some chores – such as raking – can definitely get your heart rate up as well. Don’t neglect your heart… ever. Now is the time to add a heart-healthy activity or two to your weekly fitness regimen. Whether you sign up for a class somewhere, join friends to make it a group activity, or practise solo in your own home, heart exercise is of utmost importance in maintaining your overall well-being. 52 | www.snowbirds.org
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