Online reinforcements
Check out these great sites to help you embark on a heart-healthy exercise program:
Health Canada's physical activity guides and programs
Find lots of articles and reasons to keep your exercise efforts alive and click on the Healthy Heart kit link.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
This site provides you lots of helpful information including articles on risk factors and interactive quizzes to help you assess your heart health.
Halton Region Department's website
Visit the Healthy Moms link and don't miss the Heart Health Cancer Prevention link.
Additional tips to keep your heart happy
• Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
• Remember to start off gradually and progress slowly and steadily.
• Set goals and keep a journal. Aspire to be active each day.
• Select activities you take pleasure in such as swimming, cycling, yardwork or walking, jogging, cycling, in-line skating, aerobics classes, etc.
• Connect with friends or a group that will keep you motivated.
• Create a health-friendly reward system (massage, manicure, etc.)
• In extreme temperatures, dress appropriately or opt for indoor activities such as mall walking.
• Heed warning signs to stop exercise such as: inability to talk, shortness of breath, dizziness or discomfort in your chest, shoulders or arms. If you experience these symptoms, STOP what you are doing.
• Stay hydrated.
As you work on incorporating aerobics into your exercise plans, remember to have fun and enjoy your activity. Love your heart, and it'll love you in return!
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