- Mon, Feb 13, 2012 4:06 PM EST
Photo by: CN Digital StudioThe Good: "According to fitness industry standards, rhythmic, aerobic (cardiovascular endurance) exercise of at least moderate intensity is best in terms of improving heart... more
By Bari Lieberman, SELF magazine
Turn your workouts into a healthy weapon! February is all about the heart, but your workouts might be missing the mark when it comes to protecting the vital organ.
"The difference between preventing disease and getting in shape is a question of intensity," American Council on Exercise Senior Consultant of Personal Training, Jonathan Ross said on a recent episode of Lifetime's The Balancing Act. While he recommends a little activity on a daily basis (like housework or washing the car) 2-3 days of week, you need to challenge the body with heart-pumping workouts.
According to a recent release issued from President Barack Obama, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. The two key elements to maintaining a healthy heart are regular exercise and a healthy diet, Ross explains. "The idea with heart health is we want to make sure we're challenging the cardio system to do its job better."
How do you know if your workouts are challenging your heart? American Council on Exercise expert Jessica Matthews shares these tips for turning your workout into a weapon for fighting heart disease:
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