Focusing on heart health at the YMCA

February is commonly known as the month of love, flowers and hearts – red paper hearts, candy hearts and cupid flying through the air.  These are all great, but what about one of the greatest hearts of all – our own – the human heart? 

In 2010, heart disease will cost the United States over 316 billion dollars in medication, health care services and lost workdays. Even scarier, heart disease causes more than 1 in 4 deaths each year in the United States.  These stats are not as glamorous as the Valentine’s idea of hearts, but definitely important.

The great news is you can actually do something to prevent heart disease!  The number one way to prevent heart attacks and heart disease is to adopt a healthy lifestyle.  Simple changes like being active and choosing healthier food options can make a huge difference.  Just like other muscles, the more you exercise your heart, the stronger and healthier it will be.  The Surgeon General recommends adults engage in moderate intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.  Physical activity can also help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.  But keep in mind: It is important to check with your family doctor before starting any new program.

The YMCA has several programs to get (and keep) you involved in making sure your heart stays healthy!  The wellness center, weight room, free group fitness classes, Silver Sneakers and aquatic programs name a few of the main options for members.  Getting involved in a fitness program with other people will make it easier to maintain the healthy lifestyle changes you are making for a healthy heart!

So, happy February – enjoy your healthy heart.  See you soon at the YMCA of Van Wert County!