If you’re like many Americans, you become more health-conscious as you age. Cardiovascular health is a point of focus. There are several primary factors that contribute to a happy heart, and making positive lifestyle changes can have an immediate impact. Below is a helpful guide to personal training and other solutions you can start incorporating today.

How to Bolster Heart Health

1. Eat the Right Foods

Eating the right amount of nutritious foods ensures you maintain a healthy weight, which lowers your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Cut out sugars and processed foods, and replace them with nutritious fruits and vegetables. Choose lean protein. Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids that lower fat levels in blood. Lastly, eat whole grains like oats and brown rice. These have high fiber content and will help your body absorb the nutrients you’re eating.

2. Reduce Stress

Stress contributes to high blood pressure, which heavily strains your heart. If people are feeling anxious, they may also turn to unhealthy habits like smoking or snacking to cope.

Identifying sources of stress in your life is the first step toward controlling them. Look for ways to reduce your responsibilities if possible. Speak with a friend or therapist to sort through your emotions and look for healthy outlets. Take up a new hobby or try yoga and meditation to calm yourself down.

3. Exercise

Your heart is a muscle that needs to be worked out. Exercise increases your pulse to strengthen it. Physical activity also burns excess calories to keep you at a healthy weight.

Try accessible exercises like walking your dog around the block and taking the stairs at work. Personal training is also beneficial since it allows experts to develop regimens suited to your particular fitness goals and gives you motivation for sticking to them. Combinations of cardio exercises and strength training work out your whole body. Additionally, discovering a fitness community at a gym will ensure you have a reliable support system.

If you’re looking to improve your heart health, contact Freedom Fitness. They have locations in Wentzville, MO, and throughout Greater St. Louis, and they welcome people of all skill levels. You’ll find personal training, fitness boot camps, and athletic team training to help you achieve all your goals. Learn more about their programs on their website. Call (636) 926-3364 with questions about enrollment.