Being physically active is one of the keys towards good heart health. It keeps your heart muscle pumping strong, keeps your weight under control, lowers your cholesterol, blood pressure, and reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke.

But if you’re over 50, and you don’t have the stamina and strength of a 20 year old, what options do you have?

Well, here are 7 of the best exercises that boost heart health for people over 50:

1. Walking

Taking a walk every day is much easier than going to the gym and lifting heavy weights. Besides being free, walking improves heart health, balances blood sugar levels, reduces lower back pain, and enhances your mood.

2. Slow Jog

Slow jogging has a variety of physical and mental health benefits, including lowering stress levels and decreasing risk for heart disease. You can choose a jogging routine that works for you - whether that's running outdoors or in a gym, or choosing a length and speed that works for you.

3. Pilates

Pilates is one the easiest ways for people over 50 to stay fit, healthy, and in shape. It offers numerous mental and physical health benefits without being too taxing on the body, and is loads of fun too. Plus, pilates is great for the heart, improves posture and helps with joint pain.

4. Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art that uses meditative breathing and graceful movements for a relaxing workout. Many men & women over 50 love this low-impact activity which is easy on muscles and can help with mobility and flexibility. Plus, it’s great for your heart.

5. Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice that focuses on breathing, flexibility and strength to improve mental and physical wellbeing. Research has suggested that this exercise can prevent high blood pressure, heart disease, and alleviate aches and pains. Furthermore, it's a stress-buster too, making it a great way to unwind after a tough day.

6. Weight Training

Do you think weight exercises are reserved only for bodybuilders? Think again! Strength exercise is a fundamental type of training that's essential as we get older as it helps maintain muscle mass and heart health! You can use resistance machines at the gym or try weight training with light dumbbells. It may be wise to invest in a personal training session so you can make sure you do the right exercises to meet your goals and execute them with proper form in order to avoid injury.

7. Swimming

Swimming is one of those few exercises that gives a full body workout. It strengthens different muscle groups, depending on the style you do, whilst also improving your cardiovascular system, muscle & core strength, provides stress-relief and promotes weight loss.

There you have it. 7 best exercises for over 50 to keep a strong and healthy heart. Just pick one and get started on it!

Feel free to share this blog to any of your friends and family that would gain from this. It may be something they’ve been looking for!