Did you know that exercising as little as 30 minutes every day can improve your heart health and quality of life? It can even be simple activities that are easier to incorporate into your schedule, like taking your dog for a jog, tossing a ball with your kids or sunset walk in the neighborhood. According to the American Heart Association, walking is the simplest positive change you can make to improve your heart health. Here’s why:

• Studies have shown that for every hour of walking, you may increase your life expectancy by two hours.
• Regular walking can improve your cholesterol, lower blood pressure, increase your energy and stamina and prevent weight gain.
• Walking is low-risk, easy to begin and can be done anywhere, anytime.
• You can adapt walking to your mood – go it alone, take your pup or walk with someone from your household who you’ve been “quarantining” with.

Schedule too crazy? Try breaking up your 30 minutes into three, 10-minute walk breaks throughout your day. These can be done before work, during lunch or after dinner – whatever works for you and is easy to maintain.

So, let’s get up and start moving today! Your heart will thank you.

Heart health is about more than just your heart. Blood pressure, cholesterol, family history and other factors all play important roles in keeping your heart strong. If you have questions about your heart health but aren’t quite sure where to begin, start with a heart health assessment and learn more about any risks you may have for heart-related conditions. Your journey to a stronger heart starts here.

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If you would like to speak to a provider about your heart health, Willamette Valley Medical Center can help. Click the button below to be directed to our "Find A Doctor" tool and get connected to the care you're looking for.

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In the event of a heart-related emergency, call 9-1-1. Minutes matter, and acting quickly may save a life, including your own.