Get up to reduce risk of heart disease
Healthy Heart
LAST WEEK saw the country mark On Your Feet day. This is a national awareness day to promote the benefits of sitting less and moving more.
Cutting down on the amount of time we sit can help to reduce your risk of developing heart disease, becoming overweight or obese and developing diabetes.
While the day may have passed for this year, it will return - here are some tips on how to reduce sitting time, so you are ready for next year.
Small changes
Think of one or two small changes you could make to help you to move more throughout the day.
For example, try taking regular breaks from your computer, use the stairs more often, or stand during phone calls and presentations.
If you work at a desk, you may even consider improving your setup by investing in a standing desk.
Keeping children active
Only 20-23% of children meet the physical activity guidelines of one hour per day so we should try to encourage children to exercise daily.
On days off, aim to get outside and play some games in the garden, visit the local park, or go for a family bike ride instead of spending too much time on the couch.
Walk for a Healthier Heart
Making walking a more important part of our everyday life means taking positive steps towards a healthier heart and body.
Walking is free, requires no specialised equipment, can be done by all ages and abilities and fits in with any lifestyle.
Compete with friends, family and colleagues by logging your steps, miles or walking routes over the week.
■ For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www. heartresearch.org.uk/ healthy-tips.
■ To help keep your heart healthy, try Healthy Heart recipes at: heartresearch.org. uk/heart-research-ukrecipes-2/.
■ Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled