No matter what time of year it is, you should always be making healthy heart choices, but American Heart Month this February is a great opportunity to think of the new, different ways you can improve your cardiovascular health.
The Problem
Each year, about 610,000 Americans die of heart disease, which is one in every four overall deaths. These numbers can seem scary, but small, healthy changes to your diet and exercise routine can make big impacts to reduce your risk of heart-related illnesses.
High-Impact & Low-Impact Exercises
Running, cycling and walking are all great ways to improve your heart health. But for people who have injuries, back pain or obesity, these high-impact cardio exercises can be painful and put harsh pressure on joints. However, swimming and other aquatic activities are not only enjoyable, low-impact exercises, but they also use a variety of different muscle groups, can help burn off calories and can improve your flexibility.
Why Workout in Water?
According to a UKK Institute study, swimming lowers your risk of death from heart disease by 41 percent, and lowers your risk of death from all causes by 28 percent. Swimming for cardio exercise can help control help control your cholesterol levels, boost your metabolism and reduce stress and boost your endorphins – all of which can improve your cardiovascular health and lower your risk of heart-related illnesses.
In addition, swim training is linked with helping people with hypertension lower blood pressure, and studies show that swimming for just 30 minutes 3 times per week can significantly lower blood pressure levels.
American Heart Month is about raising awareness of cardiovascular health and encouraging your family, friends and community to get involved and focus on building a healthier culture for future generations. So, whether you’re swimming laps, doing aqua-aerobics, playing water polo or even just Marco Polo, be sure to make swimming a part of your fitness routine this year! Your heart will thank you later.
Geoff McKenzie
Geoff brings experience in writing, publishing, manufacturing and business development to Clear Comfort. He has written freelance for publications such as O Magazine and has worked at major media outlets, such as Men’s Health and Backpacker Magazine.
Before Clear Comfort, he served as a community economic development volunteer in the Peace Corps and is now proud to be a part of a leading innovative company that is revolutionizing the pool industry. Geoff is passionate about sustainability, technology and cultural exchange. He is fluent in Spanish and enjoys traveling, biking, reading and writing in his free time.
