Taking heart from triumphs in Tokyo

TEAM GB has performed magnificently in the Tokyo Olympics and, while most of us could not hope to emulate our athletes’ achievements, we can appreciate the benefits of regular exercise.

Aerobic activity is the best type of exercise to keep your heart healthy. This is because your body requires more oxygen, causing your heart and lungs to work harder.

Aerobic exercise combines stretching and strength with rhythmic movement, involving large muscle groups such as shoulders, arms, and legs.

Popular aerobic Olympic sports include cycling, swimming and rowing. Some other aerobic exercises, which you can try at home, include walking up and down the stairs, dancing and skipping.

Readers are probably familiar with the recommendation to take 10,000 steps every day. In the UK, the average person completes just 3,000 to 4,000 per day.

Why not increase your daily step count by taking on the Heart Research UK Step Challenge? This challenge involves walking 10,000 steps per day over four weeks.

Look for opportunities to increase your step count every day. For example, you could try parking further away from the supermarket, or opting for the stairs over the lift – you will be on the path to improving your physical health.

Taking on the challenge increases physical activity levels; helps to manage weight; improves heart health; strengthens your bones and builds muscle and lowers blood pressure.

If the Olympics has inspired you to get involved in sports or activities, check out what activities or sports clubs are available in your area.

You could either get in touch with your local club or check out the BBC Sports Get Inspired webpage.

No matter what your fitness levels, there is a sport or activity out there for you!

If you’d like to support Heart Research UK’s vital work into the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease, please visit: www.heartresearch.org.uk Daniel Raymond, Heart Research UK