Heart and Stroke Foundation
Get moving!
Everyone needs activity
It’s always a good idea to add physical
activity to your life, regardless of your age.
Physical activity can dramatically lower
your risk of heart disease and stroke and
help prevent and control risk factors such
as:
u high blood pressure
u high cholesterol
u type 2 diabetes
u osteoporosis
u certain types of cancer
u obesity
u reduce stress levels
u increase energy
u improve sleep
u improve digestion
You may see benefits within the first
week of regular activity. For example, your
blood pressure may improve and you could
start to feel more energetic and relaxed.
After three months, you may experience
better health, improved posture and
balance, stronger muscles and bones, more
confidence and a more positive outlook on
life.
Because physical activity makes you
feel better about yourself, you're more likely
to make healthy lifestyle choices and avoid
unhealthy ones such as smoking, overeating
or drinking too much alcohol.
Inactivity, on the other hand, is linked
to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke and
the many disabilities they can cause. In
addition, lack of activity may increase your
risk for:
high blood pressure
high cholesterol
u type 2 diabetes
u osteoporosis
u certain types of cancer
u obesity
u falls and injuries
u depression
u
u
may help to prevent another one. And
people over 65 with poor mobility who
engage in muscle and bone strengthening
activities can enhance their balance and
prevent falls
NOTE: Before starting a physical
activity program, speak to your healthcare
provider first to discuss what is right for
you.
Almost everyone can benefit from
active living. If you have arthritis or
osteoporosis, physical activity is extremely
important to keep you mobile. If you've
already had a heart attack, becoming active
For more information about heart health, visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation Canada
6 The HUB February 2018