Exercise is always good for you no matter what the circumstance is. Whether you’re trying to get in better shape, enhance your mental well-being, or just looking for a new hobby to pick up, the benefits are endless! One of the main advantages of being physically active is that it helps to lower cholesterol. Often linked to cardiovascular disease, having high cholesterol can pose a threat to many.

Depending on your lifestyle and personal fitness goals, there are plenty of ways to get your daily dose of activity no matter what your capabilities are. Are you ready to start your heart-healthy journey and let high cholesterol become one less thing to worry about? Check out these simple exercises and healthy habits you can start today!

Cardio Makes Every Beat Count!
Though cardio may not be for everyone, realizing that it’s more than just running can help you become more of a fan. Yes, running and jogging are two of the most common exercises that lower cholesterol, but keep in mind that this workout isn’t necessarily a race. Believe it or not, brisk walking can have more benefits than sprinting to the theoretical finish line. It’s easier on the body, as it puts less strain on your joints.

How good are your dance moves? This endurance-filled activity has also been discovered to improve your heart health! It increases the strength of your cardiovascular system because it gets your heart rate going and elevates your breathing. Getting your heartbeat moving faster helps your body receive more oxygen, burn calories, and lower your cholesterol. Find a local Zumba class, choose a dance partner, or fly solo, and hop to it!

Bike Your Way to Wellness
Heading out for a bike ride is an easy breezy way to improve your cholesterol. Just like enjoying a walk, bike rides are also easy on the body. With age, we can become more prone to arthritis, a common condition that affects overall mobility, especially in the knees and hips. Going for a relaxing bike ride stimulates your heart, lungs, and circulation, lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Bike riding also benefits the body’s circulatory system, which has a direct relationship with your cholesterol levels. If there is too much cholesterol in your bloodstream, it can cause blockage and reduced blood flow. Spending 20 simple minutes on a bike can limit such risks, let you take in fresh air, soak up the sun, and help you lead a healthier lifestyle.

Just Keep Swimming
Swimming is a fantastic full-body workout that offers a handful of benefits, one of them being its positive impact on cholesterol levels. The combination of aerobic movements and resistance training improves cardiovascular health by increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, more simply known as “good” cholesterol. Also, swimming burns calories and weight gain, both of which play a role in managing your levels. Being a low-impact exercise, it’s accessible and manageable for all fitness levels.

Being in the water is like having natural resistance, challenging your muscle groups, and bettering strength and endurance. This fitness approach supports cardiovascular health and has positive effects on your lipid profile, leading to a healthier cholesterol balance. Doing laps in the pool, exploring an aerobics class, or going for a leisurely swim goes a long way. Such a simple activity is not only enjoyable but very effective.

Strengthening Your Way to Wellness
Building body strength is a great strategy in your quest to lower cholesterol and promote cardiovascular health. It’s the quickest way to knock levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), AKA the “bad” cholesterol out of your system. As you challenge your muscles, the body becomes better at using cholesterol for energy.

When it comes to weightlifting, no need to push your limits. Remember that starting small is still beneficial as you work your way up the fitness totem pole. This workout is different for everybody and adaptable to all needs. Take it easy and build your strength as you go. Setting fitness goals is a great way to prioritize your heart health and feel accomplished along the way.

Strike A Yoga Pose
In addition to improving flexibility and strength, yoga focuses on deep breathing and relaxation, keeping stress levels low. High-stress patterns and frequent distress can hurt your heart, as it causes inflammation. Inflammation around the heart can be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and the lining of the blood vessels. It ultimately balances out the good and bad cholesterol. Remember, physical activity doesn’t have to be rigorous or push your limits to get positive results in return.

It’s never too late to take control of your health and well-being. Engaging in physical activity can sometimes take patience, especially when it comes to achieving your goals. Start slow and gradually adjust. Make it a point to get up and move around every day, no matter where you are or how much time you have. Our communities encourage residents to prioritize their health. Discover the many amenities within Gloria Dei’s 55+ Active Living Communities that allow residents to lead a happier and healthier lifestyle.