According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), heart disease is responsible for one out of every four deaths. Begin by making lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, quitting smoking, reducing stress, and exercising.
Going to the gym may not be enough to keep your heart healthy for many years. Work with one of our physical therapist to create the best long-term plan for you. Our therapists frequently recommend a combination of cardio and strength training to boost the body's metabolic rate.
If you have had a heart attack, your doctor may recommend a structured cardiac rehabilitation program and monitor your progress. Although you may not want to start a rigorous combination of cardio and strength training right away, making lifestyle changes can aid in recovery and improve your quality of life. In addition to professional fitness training and physical therapy(opens in a new tab), you will be advised to modify your eating habits and reduce your stress levels.
A physical therapist may suggest:
- Low-impact physical activity with a low risk of injury, with three sessions each week.
- Learning how to warm up and cool down appropriately.
- Strengthening muscles or resistance training using small weights through occupational therapy(opens in a new tab).
A physical therapist will arrange the program based on your existing abilities and move at a slower pace for people who do not exercise frequently. Call us(opens in a new tab) to see how you may take advantage of physiotherapy.
Do you want to improve your heart health by increasing your physical activity? Rather than running on the treadmill, employ Outcomes Therapy to create a customized strategy for your lifestyle and goals into your home health care(opens in a new tab).
For related guidance, our post on drinking water is important for health & is a good next read.
Curious how this connects to physical therapy? Our guide on therapy for elderly walks through it.
