ASK THE PHYSICIAN
William S. Hirsch, D.O., F.A.C.C.
Chair, Department of Cardiology
Attending Cardiologist
Q: I used to run probably 10-15 miles every week,
but now I’ve developed problems with my knees,
so running any real distance is out. I really miss getting out and
around the neighborhood, though – is there really any benefit to
just walking?
–Tim K., Kinnelon
A: Tim, while walking is slower, as little as 30 minutes per day
spent walking at a brisk pace provides both physical and men-
tal benefits. Walking helps reduce the risk of coronary heart dis-
ease and stroke, improves blood pressure and blood sugar levels,
helps maintain a healthy body weight, reduces the risk of osteo-
porosis and provides enhanced mental well being.
Feeling happier and enjoying being fit – as well as looking bet-
ter – are great benefits of walking. It doesn’t cost anything, is easy
to do every day and doesn’t require a lot of special equipment or
warm-ups.
At Deborah Heart and Lung Center, we encourage our patients
and also our staff to walk every day if possible because it can have
a profound impact on overall health and wellbeing.
You may also want to consider other exercises which benefit
heart health, such as swimming, rowing, elliptical or using a sta-
tionary bicycle. Changing things up can reduce the chance of tir-
ing of the same old routine.
The way you exercise may have changed, Tim, but you can still
get a good workout!
For an appointment or more information about how Deborah
Heart and Lung Center’s leading-edge technologies can improve
your quality of life, call 800-555-1990 or request info/an appoint-
ment by visiting www.demanddeborah.org.
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