aerobic exercise And Heart Health

Q: What is aerobic exercise and how does it help the heart? What kind of exercise should I do?

A: Aerobic exercise is generally continuous and rhythmic and uses large muscle groups. It’s performed at a moderate intensity over a long period of time. Walking, bicycling, running, and swimming are some aerobic exercises. This type of exercise strengthens the heart and lungs and improves the body’s ability to use oxygen. When you exercise, your muscles require more blood as fuel. In order to provide that blood, your arteries relax and widen. This helps your arteries remain flexible and healthy.

Over time, aerobic exercise can help decrease your heart rate and blood pressure, help control weight, boost self-image, and reduce emotional stress.

Jennifer H. Mieres, M.D., is director of nuclear cardiology and associate professor of clinical medicine at New York University. She’s also a spokesperson for the American Heart Association.